Fludrocortisone Acetate

Other Names: Florinef Acetate

Commonly Prescribed For: Fludrocortisone Acetate is prescribed people who need help to control the amount of sodium in the body. It is prescribed for the treatment of Addison’s disease and also for conditions where too much sodium is lost in the urine.

How to Take It: Fludrocortisone Acetate should be taken as per your doctor’s instructions. It can be taken with food or without but if it causes an upset stomach it should be taken with food only. You should take this medication with water. Take a missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take more than one dose at a time. If you need to stop taking your medication you should discuss this with your doctor who will gradually decrease your dose. Stopping your medication suddenly can increase the risk of side effects. Fludrocortisone is a steroid and steroids can cause a weakened immune system. Avoid being around people who are sick while taking steroids especially people who have chicken pox or measles as these infections can be fatal to people taking steroids.

How It Works: Fludrocortisone Acetate is a steroid drug. It works by replacing cortisone in the body and by aiding the kidneys in retaining sodium. It prevents too much salt being lost in the urine.

Some Side Effects: Side effects of Fludrocortisone Acetate can include, vomiting; acne; bruising easily; insomnia; depression; headaches; abdominal pain; anxiety or irregular or absent menstrual periods. More serious side effects can include severe, vision problems; a cold or persistent infection; muscle weakness or black stools. Signs of a serious allergic reaction could include trouble breathing; tightness of the chest; rash; itching; hives or swollen face, lips or tongue.