Metyrapone 250 mg Suppliers & Bulk Manufacturers

Available Forms: Tablets

Available Strengths: 250 mg

Reference Brands: Metopirone (USA/EU)

Category: Women's Health

Metyrapone is a cortisol synthesis inhibitor used primarily in diagnostic testing of adrenal function (the metyrapone stimulation test). It works by blocking the enzyme 11‑beta‑hydroxylase in the adrenal gland, reducing cortisol production and allowing clinicians to assess pituitary ACTH reserve. In certain clinical situations, it may also be used to manage endogenous Cushing’s syndrome by lowering cortisol levels. Careful monitoring of hormone levels is required, and side effects can include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and elevated ACTH.

Product Description:

Metyrapone inhibits 11-beta-hydroxylase, the final enzyme in cortisol synthesis. Blocking it stops cortisol production and causes its immediate precursor, 11-deoxycortisol, to accumulate. Both effects are useful: falling cortisol treats cortisol excess, and the rise in precursor forms the basis of a diagnostic test.

Diagnostically, the metyrapone test assesses whether the pituitary can mount an ACTH response: cortisol falls, the pituitary should respond by driving the blocked pathway, and 11-deoxycortisol rises. A failure to rise indicates adrenal insufficiency of pituitary origin. Therapeutically it is used to control cortisol excess in Cushing's syndrome of any cause — while waiting for surgery, after unsuccessful surgery, or where surgery is not possible — titrated against cortisol measurements. Over-suppression causes adrenal insufficiency, so patients are taught to recognise it. Accumulating precursors with mineralocorticoid and androgen activity cause hypertension, low potassium, acne and hirsutism. Nausea is common and reduced by taking it with food.

Sourcing notes. A narrow, specialist product with a small supplier base and a history of steep pricing and shortage. Both the diagnostic and therapeutic uses need reliable cortisol assays locally. Endocrinology centres are the buyers.