Fludrocortisone Acetate (By Mouth)

Fludrocortisone Acetate (floo-droe-KOR-ti-sone AS-e-tate)

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.

Brand Name(s):

Florinef Acetate
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

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.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• 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.

If a dose is missed:

• 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.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

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

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• 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.
• 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.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Eye pain or blurred vision
• Unexplained fever or sore throat
• Muscle aches or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Increased or decreased appetite
• Upset stomach
• Trouble sleeping
• Mood swings or personality changes
• Headache
• Swelling of the feet, legs, or arms

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.