Infantile spasms are typically treated with which hormone?

Infantile spasms, a type of epilepsy seen in infants, are often treated with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). This hormone works by helping to regulate the production and release of cortisol from the adrenal glands. Cortisol has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to stabilize the overactive brain activity associated with infantile spasms. The use of ACTH in treating this condition has been well established, as it can lead to rapid clinical improvement and a reduction in seizure frequency.

Other hormones listed do not have the same efficacy or established role in treating infantile spasms. Corticotropin-releasing hormone primarily acts on the pituitary gland to regulate the release of ACTH but does not directly treat seizures. Glucagon is involved in glucose metabolism and is not used for seizure management. Thyroid hormone plays a critical role in metabolism and development but has no direct influence on the prevention or management of seizures such as infantile spasms. Therefore, ACTH is the preferred treatment due to its specific effects on the hormone levels that modulate neuronal excitability.