Brand Name: Florinef
Generic Name: Fludrocortisone

Fludrocortisone

(floo-droe-KOR-ti-sone)

NEWLY DISCOVERED USES (OFF-LABEL)
Chronic fatigue syndrome, orthostatic hypotension

ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Used as a partial replacement therapy for primary and secondary adrenocortical insufficiency in Addison’s disease and for the treatment of salt-losing adrenogenital syndrome

BRAND NAME
Florinef

DRUG CLASS
Mineralocorticoid

DESCRIPTION
Fludrocortisone promotes increased absorption of sodium and loss of potassium from the kidneys.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
High blood pressure, edema (swelling due to fluid retention), headache, dizziness, acne, rash, bruising, menstrual irregularities, suppression of growth, high glucose levels, adrenal gland suppression, peptic ulcer, muscle weakness, cataracts, sweating, congestive heart failure, seizures.

CAUTIONS

• Not advised for off-labeled indications because of ability to cause marked sodium retention. Discuss with your doctor prior to initiation of therapy.
• Therapy with this drug may mask the symptoms of infection and increase the susceptibility of infection via immunosuppression.
• Chronic use may be associated with the development of cataracts.
• Taper the dose gradually when therapy is discontinued.
• Check with your doctor prior to receiving vaccinations or immunizations.
• Watch for sodium retention and potassium loss.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Anabolic steroids, barbiturates, phenytoin, estrogens, amphotericin B, potassium sparing diuretics, warfarin, anti-diabetic drugs, insulin, digoxin, aspirin.

FOOD INTERACTIONS
Unknown

HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Unknown

PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category C. Excretion in breast milk is unknown.

SPECIAL INFORMATION
Notify your doctor if dizziness, severe or continuing headaches, swelling of feet or lower legs, or unusual weight gain develops. If on chronic therapy, you may require monitoring of blood pressure and signs of edema.