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.

Pentigetide is a polar peptide derived from Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Fc region, with two acidic side chains, a basic side chain and free termini. It was developed to inhibit IgE-mediated allergic responses. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of subcutaneously administered pentigetide in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Mean symptom scores indicated that the frequency and severity of sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal itching decreased after 1 week of pentigetide treatment and remained decreased until study completion, whereas congestion was unchanged or slightly increased. In contrast, the frequency and severity of sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal itching increased after placebo treatment, with congestion essentially unchanged. No clinical or statistical differences in safety parameters between pentigetide and placebo treatments were observed. This double-blind, active-controlled trial demonstrates that pentigetide, 0.5%, ophthalmic solution is safe and effective in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. Pentigetide nasal solution was safe and effective for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis.