Corticotropin-Releasing Factor, Human
Corticotropin-Releasing Factor (CRF), Human is a peptide hormone that plays a central role in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis by stimulating the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It is primarily used as a diagnostic agent to evaluate disorders of cortisol excess or deficiency.
A diagnostic hormone used to assess pituitary-adrenal axis function in endocrine disorders.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1927940
- Generic
- Corticotropin-Releasing Factor, Human
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primarily used in diagnostic testing to evaluate Cushing's syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, and to differentiate between pituitary-dependent versus adrenal-dependent cortisol disorders. It helps clinicians assess the integrity and responsiveness of the HPA axis.
As a releasing factor, CRF binds to receptors on pituitary corticotroph cells, stimulating the synthesis and secretion of ACTH. The subsequent rise in ACTH triggers the adrenal cortex to release cortisol, allowing clinicians to measure this cascade response during diagnostic testing.
Administered intravenously during standardized diagnostic protocols. Response patterns (or lack thereof) help distinguish between pituitary adenomas, adrenal tumors, and ectopic ACTH secretion. Interpretation requires specialized endocrine testing. Not used therapeutically; reserved for diagnostic evaluation of HPA axis disorders.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy