Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

FLUDROCORTISONE - ORAL

(flew-dro-KOR-tih-sown)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Florinef

Uses

Fludrocortisone is used to treat low levels of corticosteroid hormones (e.g., Addison's disease).

OTHER

Uses

This medication may also be used for certain types of low blood pressure.

How To Use

This medication must be taken exactly as directed. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without your doctor's permission. An increase in side effects can occur when the medication is suddenly stopped.

Side Effects

This medication is generally well tolerated. Notify your doctor if you develop any of the following while taking this medication: dizziness, swelling of the hands or feet, rapid weight gain, water retention, skin rash, unusual bruising, severe or continuous headaches, weakness, joint pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: thyroid disease, liver disease, herpes eye infection, glaucoma, mental or emotional problems, stomach or intestinal problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, brittle bones, myasthenia gravis, history of tuberculosis, seizures, blood clots. Ask your doctor about restricting salt intake. This drug should be used in pregnant or nursing women only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits of this therapy with your doctor.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any nonprescription or prescription drugs you may be taking including: barbiturates, phenytoin, rifampin, estrogens, NSAIDs, diuretics, oral blood thinners, vaccines, aspirin, cyclosporine, pyridostigmine, neostigmine, drugs to treat diabetes, digoxin, other steroid medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include high blood pressure, water retention, excessive weight gain, and muscle weakness.

Notes

This medication must be used under close medical supervision. Laboratory tests will be done periodically to check the effects of this medication.

Missed Dose

Take any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.

Storage

Store at room temperature and keep away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).