What is Fludrocortisone Acetate: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Fludrocortisone Acetate overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Florinef Acetate

Generic Names:

  • Fludrocortisone Acetate

Uses:

  • Replaces certain hormones when the body does not make enough, such as in Addison's disease. Sometimes used to treat low blood pressure. Belongs to a class of drugs called mineralocorticoids.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Diagnostic Agent, Adrenocortical Function, Endocrine-Metabolic Agent

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Fludrocortisone Acetate used for?

Fludrocortisone acetate is a medication used to treat low glucocorticoid levels caused by various diseases. Fludrocortisone acetate is a manmade form of glucocorticoid. Fludrocortisone acetate is a generic drug also sold under the brand name Florinef. This drug has been available for years. In the treatment of glucocorticoid deficiency, fludrocortisone acetate use is common.

What form(s) does Fludrocortisone Acetate come in

  • Tablet

What are common Fludrocortisone Acetate doses?

  • Tablet 0.1MG

Common Fludrocortisone Acetate prescriptions

  • Fludrocortisone Acetate
    0.1mg tablet

How to take Fludrocortisone Acetate

  • Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.

  • If this medicine upsets your stomach, it may be taken with food or milk.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.

  • If this medicine upsets your stomach, it may be taken with food or milk.

  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

What to do if you miss a dose of Fludrocortisone Acetate

  • Take the missed dose as soon as possible.

  • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.

  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

Fludrocortisone Acetate contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to fludrocortisone, hydrocortisone, dexamethasone (Decadron®), or triamcinolone (Aristocort®). Check with your doctor before taking if you have any type of fungal infection.

Fludrocortisone Acetate warnings

  • You may need to carry identification to let others know that you are taking fludrocortisone. Ask your doctor about this.

  • Avoid being around anyone with measles or chickenpox. If you are exposed to measles or chickenpox, tell your doctor as soon as possible.

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

  • Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have high blood pressure, heart, liver, or kidney disease, or glaucoma.

  • Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly. You may need to take smaller and smaller doses before stopping completely.

  • Tell your doctor if you have had tuberculosis, herpes infection, or any other infection. This medicine may cover up the signs of infection or may allow you to get new infections more easily.

Fludrocortisone Acetate interactions

  • Do not have any immunizations or vaccines (shots) while you are taking this medicine without first asking your doctor.

  • Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have high blood pressure, heart, liver, or kidney disease, or glaucoma.

  • Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly. You may need to take smaller and smaller doses before stopping completely.

  • Tell your doctor if you have had tuberculosis, herpes infection, or any other infection. This medicine may cover up the signs of infection or may allow you to get new infections more easily.

  • Avoid being around anyone with measles or chickenpox. If you are exposed to measles or chickenpox, tell your doctor as soon as possible.

  • You may need to carry identification to let others know that you are taking fludrocortisone. Ask your doctor about this.

Fludrocortisone Acetate side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Eye pain or blurred vision

  • Unexplained fever or sore throat

  • Muscle aches or weakness

  • Headache

  • Swelling of the feet, legs, or arms

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Headache

  • Upset stomach

  • Increased or decreased appetite

  • Mood swings or personality changes

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Swelling of the feet, legs, or arms