Indications
- Fludrocortisone is a synthetic form of a natural glucocorticoid produced by the body.
- It is utilized in conjunction with other medications like hydrocortisone.
- The primary purpose is to address low glucocorticoid levels resulting from adrenal gland diseases such as Addison’s disease, adrenocortical insufficiency, and salt-losing adrenogenital syndrome.
- Glucocorticoids play a crucial role in maintaining salt and water balance and regulating blood pressure.
- Essential for the breakdown of carbohydrates in the diet.
Dosage and administration
- Take this medication orally, with or without food, following your doctor’s instructions, typically once daily.
- Your doctor will adjust the dosage based on your medical condition and treatment response.
- Adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule for optimal benefits; take the medication exactly as directed.
- To enhance adherence, take it at the same time each day; consider marking a calendar for reminders if the schedule is not daily.
- Do not alter the dosage, frequency, or discontinue the medication without your doctor’s approval.
- Sudden cessation may worsen certain conditions; dosage adjustments should be gradual under your doctor’s guidance.
- Inform your doctor if your condition persists or deteriorates.
Side effects
- Possible common side effects include stomach upset, headache, and menstrual changes (e.g., delayed/irregular/absent periods).
- If these effects persist or worsen, promptly contact your doctor or pharmacist.
- The medication is prescribed because its benefits outweigh the risk of side effects.
- Serious side effects may occur; inform your doctor immediately, including changes in skin appearance (color changes, thinning, fatty areas), easy bleeding/bruising, dizziness, slow wound healing, signs of infection (persistent sore throat, fever, skin sores), bone/joint/muscle pain, puffy face, swelling of hands/feet, severe tiredness, increased thirst/urination, unusual weight gain, muscle weakness, eye problems (pain, redness, vision changes), severe/continuous headaches, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (agitation, depression, mood swings), seizure, symptoms of stomach/intestinal bleeding (abdominal pain, black/tarry stools, coffee ground-like vomit).
- A rare but serious allergic reaction may occur; seek medical help if symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially of face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing occur.
- This list does not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice other effects not mentioned.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to fludrocortisone or other substances, as inactive ingredients may cause allergic reactions.
- Share your medical history, especially regarding bleeding problems, blood clots, osteoporosis, diabetes, eye issues, heart problems, high blood pressure, infections, kidney/liver disease, mental/mood disorders, low blood minerals, stomach/intestinal problems, seizures, and thyroid issues, before using this medication.
- Fludrocortisone affects salt retention and elimination of other salts. Follow your doctor’s dietary recommendations for salt, potassium, and calcium intake.
- The medication may mask signs of infection, increasing susceptibility to infections. Avoid contact with individuals with contagious illnesses (e.g., chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu) and inform your doctor if exposed.
- Do not undergo immunizations/vaccinations without your doctor’s approval. Avoid contact with individuals recently vaccinated with oral polio or nasal flu vaccines.
- Long-term use of corticosteroids can affect the body’s response to stress. Inform healthcare providers about medication use before surgery, emergency treatment, or during serious illness/injury.
- If you have a history of ulcers or take high doses of aspirin/arthritis medicine, limit alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding.
- Monitor blood sugar levels regularly if you have diabetes, as the drug may affect blood sugar control. Adjustments to diabetic medication or diet may be necessary.
- This medication may impact a child’s growth with prolonged use; regular check-ups are advised.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, including water retention, bone loss/pain, stomach/intestinal bleeding, and mental/mood changes.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if essential. Discuss risks and benefits with your doctor. Infants born to mothers using this medication may have low corticosteroid levels; notify the doctor of symptoms like persistent nausea/vomiting, severe diarrhea, or weakness in the newborn.
- Consult with your doctor before breastfeeding, as the medication can pass into breast milk and have undesirable effects on the nursing infant.