Corticotropin is a hormone that is secreted by the pituitary gland and regulates the production of cortisol. Synonyms for corticotropin include adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), corticotrophin, and adrenocorticotrophin. ACTH is a peptide hormone that stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce and release cortisol into the bloodstream. Corticotrophin is another name for ACTH and is often used interchangeably with corticotropin. Adrenocorticotrophin is a more specific term that refers to the part of the pituitary gland that produces ACTH. These synonyms are important to know in medical contexts when discussing hormone regulation and adrenal function.