Indications
Florinef (active ingredient: fludrocortisone acetate) is a prescription medication indicated for:
- Adrenocortical Insufficiency: Florinef is used for the treatment of adrenocortical insufficiency, including primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison's disease.
Florinef belongs to a class of drugs known as mineralocorticoids, which work by replacing or supplementing the natural hormone aldosterone, helping to maintain sodium and water balance in the body, and regulating blood pressure.
Uses and Dosage
Fludrocortisone comes in tablet form and should be taken as directed by your doctor. Your doctor will determine the best dosing schedule for you, and it is important to follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding the instructions. Take fludrocortisone exactly as directed and do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed.
The recommended dosage for treating the salt-losing adrenogenital syndrome is 0.1 mg to 0.2 mg of fludrocortisone acetate daily. For adrenal gland deficiency, the recommended dose is 50 to 200 micrograms a day, and for adrenogenital syndrome, the recommended dose is 100 to 200 micrograms a day. The usual dosage is 0.1 mg per day, but the dosage can range from 0.1 mg taken three times per week to 0.2 mg taken once daily.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Fludrocortisone Acetate:
- Increased blood pressure
- Stomach pain, bloating
- Facial redness
- Acne, increased sweating
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Pitting, scars, or bumps under your skin
- Stretch marks
- Increased hair growth of body hair
Serious Side Effects of Fludrocortisone Acetate:
- Swelling of feet or lower legs, rapid weight gain
- Muscle weakness, loss of muscle mass
- Blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights
- Bloody or tarry stools,
- Coughing up blood
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
- A seizure
- Increased pressure inside the skull
- Low potassium level
- Constipation
- Fluttering in your chest
- Increased thirst or urination
- Irregular heartbeats
- Leg cramps
- Muscle weakness or limp feeling
- Numbness or tingling
- Pancreatitis
- Severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Increased adrenal gland hormones
- Increased body hair
- Menstrual changes
- Mood changes
- Sexual changes.
- Skin discoloration
- Slow wound healing
- Thinning skin
- Tiredness
- Weight gain in your face and shoulders
Form and Strength
Florinef (Fludrocortisone Acetate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Florinef: Tablet
- 0.1 mg
Fludrocortisone Acetate: Tablet
- 0.1 mg
Caution
- Before using Florinef, disclose your medical history to your doctor, including any history of candidiasis, valley fever, blood clots, bleeding problems, osteoporosis, eye problems, diabetes, liver disease, kidney problems, heart problems, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, low blood minerals, any mental or mood disorders. Discuss any prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, or herbal products you are taking as they may interact with this corticosteroid.
- Do not stop taking fludrocortisone without consulting your doctor first. If the medication is stopped abruptly, it can lead to a range of side effects, such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, headache, fever, joint and muscle pain, peeling skin, and weight loss.
- Florinef, as alcohol can interfere with the body's ability to absorb the medication, potentially reducing its effectiveness, and can increase the risk of side effects, such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and headaches.
- Obtain your doctor's consent before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations, and you should also avoid contact with individuals who have recently received oral polio vaccine or flu vaccine administered through the nasal route.
- When taking Fludrocortisone, be aware of the potential for an allergic reaction and contact your doctor if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, skin rashes, hives, and difficulty breathing.
- Your doctor may advise you on how much salt, potassium, and calcium should be included in your diet, as Fludrocortisone causes your body to retain sodium and excrete other salts (such as calcium and potassium).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I take fludrocortisone?
Fludrocortisone should be taken as directed by your doctor. It is usually taken once a day on an empty stomach, either with or without food. The usual starting dose is 0.1 mg per day.
Is fludrocortisone safe for pregnancy?
Fludrocortisone is considered safe for pregnant women. However, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.
How long does it take for fludrocortisone to work?
Fludrocortisone usually starts to work within 1 to 2 weeks of starting treatment. However, it can take up to 6 weeks for the full effects to be seen.
Is fludrocortisone safe for long-term use?
Yes, fludrocortisone is considered safe for long-term use. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and monitor your blood pressure and electrolyte levels regularly while taking this medication.
Are there any potential drug interactions with fludrocortisone?
Yes, fludrocortisone may interact with other medications, such as ketoconazole, rifampin, and barbiturates. Before taking fludrocortisone, tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
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