Corticorelin (Xerecept) is a synthetic analog of the naturally occurring human peptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF). Corticotropin-releasing factor is the predominant regulator of adrenocorticotropic-hormone (ACTH) formation and release by the pituitary. In addition to its primary location in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, endogenous CRF has also been identified in cerebral cortical interneurons, the limbic system, brain stem and spinal cord. Several studies have indicated the ability of CRF to reduce the brain edema caused by brain tumors. Clinical trials with the Corticorelin (Xerecept) have indicated that this drug has a distinct advantage over classical corticosteroids in the treatment of brain edema. Fewer and/or milder side effects have been reported for corticorelin compared with dexamethasone, although at higher doses of corticorelin several side effects, including hypotension and transient flushing, have been reported.