Before taking Florinef, tell your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any medical conditions, allergies, and all medications you are taking. This information helps ensure the medication is safe for you and reduces the risk of side effects and drug interactions.
Tell Your Healthcare Provider About Your Medical History
Before starting Florinef, let your healthcare provider know if you have or have ever had:
- Fungal infections, including candidiasis or Valley fever (coccidioidomycosis).
- Blood clots or bleeding disorders.
- Osteoporosis or weak bones.
- Eye problems, such as glaucoma or cataracts.
- Diabetes.
- Liver disease.
- Kidney disease.
- Heart disease.
- High blood pressure.
- Stomach or intestinal problems, such as ulcers.
- Low levels of minerals such as potassium or calcium.
- Mental health or mood disorders.
Also, tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and dietary supplements you are taking, as some may interact with Florinef.
Do Not Stop Florinef Suddenly
Do not stop taking Florinef without first talking to your healthcare provider.
Stopping the medication suddenly may cause adrenal insufficiency or withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Extreme tiredness or drowsiness.
- Confusion.
- Headache.
- Fever.
- Joint or muscle pain.
- Peeling skin.
- Weight loss.
If Florinef needs to be discontinued, your healthcare provider will gradually reduce your dose to help prevent these symptoms.
Alcohol
It is best to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Florinef.
Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and headaches. If you drink alcohol regularly, talk to your healthcare provider about whether it is safe to consume alcohol while taking this medication.
Vaccinations
Before receiving any vaccinations or immunizations, tell your healthcare provider that you are taking Florinef.
Do not receive any vaccines without your healthcare provider’s approval. You should also avoid close contact with people who have recently received certain live vaccines, such as the oral polio vaccine or the intranasal (nasal spray) influenza vaccine, if advised by your healthcare provider.
Allergic Reactions
Although uncommon, Florinef may cause a serious allergic reaction.
Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you develop:
- Rash or hives.
- Severe itching.
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Severe dizziness.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Stop taking Florinef and seek immediate medical care if any of these symptoms occur.
Diet and Electrolytes
Florinef affects the way your body handles sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes. It increases sodium retention while increasing the loss of potassium and, in some cases, calcium.
Your healthcare provider may recommend changes to your diet, such as:
- Adjusting your salt (sodium) intake.
- Eating more potassium-rich foods or taking potassium supplements if needed.
- Ensuring adequate calcium intake to help support bone health.
Your blood pressure and electrolyte levels may be checked regularly during treatment to ensure your dose remains appropriate.
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