
Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Desoxycorticosterone
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Desoxycorticosterone (11-deoxycorticosterone) is a mineralocorticoid secreted from Zona reticularis and Zona fasciculata of the adrenal gland. In the cytosol of the mitochondrion, pregnenolone is converted to either androgens or 11-deoxycorticosterone and 11-deoxycortisol by enzymes of the endoplasmic reticulum. Then, 11-deoxycorticosterone, along with 11-deoxycortisol, re-enters the mitochondrion, where the enzymes are located for tissue-specific conversion to mineralocorticoids or glucocorticoids, respectively.
Desoxycorticosterone is commonly found in two forms: the acetate salt (desoxycorticosterone acetate, or DOCA) and the pivalate salt (desoxycorticosterone pivalate). Both forms are given as intramuscular injections as replacement therapy for Addison’s disease. This disease is marked by insufficient adrenal function, including low mineralocorticoid levels.
Desoxycorticosterone pivalate is sold for veterinary use by Novartis under the brand name Percoten.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
