NCIt related terms : 2-Methyl-1,2-di-3-pyridinyl-1-propanone;
NCIt definition : A pyridine derivative and a glucocorticoid synthesis inhibitor. Metyrapone inhibits
11-beta-hydroxylase, thereby inhibiting synthesis of cortisol from 11-deoxycortisol
and corticosterone from desoxycorticosterone in the adrenal gland. Removal of the
negative feedback mechanism exerted by cortisol results in increased adrenocorticotropic
hormone (ACTH) secretion by the pituitary gland. In turn, continuing stimulation of
adrenal gland by ACTH results in accumulation of corticoid precursors, 11-desoxycortisol
and desoxycorticosterone. These metabolites are excreted in urine that maybe used
as indicators for pituitary responsiveness.;