Corticorelin (INN, trade name Xerecept) is a diagnostic agent.

[1] The corticorelin stimulation test helps to differentiate between the causes for adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-dependent hypercortisolism.

The most common side effects (in 1% to 10% of patients) are transient dysosmia and dysgeusia (distortion of the sense of smell and taste), as well as a sensation of warmth.

About 0.1 to 1% of patients experience hypersensitivity, hypotension (lowering of blood pressure), tachycardia (increased heart rate), flush, dyspnoea (breathing difficulties), a cold sensation in the throat, the urge to urinate, and dizziness.

[2] The effects of corticorelin are reduced by corticosteroids, antihistamines, antiserotonergics and oxytocin.