R R

What Is Fludrocortisone?

Fludrocortisone is a prescription corticosteroid with strong mineralocorticoid activity. It helps the body retain sodium and water and release potassium. It is used when the body does not make enough of certain adrenal hormones.

Link to This Resource Page

Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.

To display this...

What Is Fludrocortisone?

Fludrocortisone is a prescription corticosteroid with strong mineralocorticoid activity. It helps the body retain sodium and water and release potassium. It is used when the body does not make enough of certain adrenal hormones.

read more about fludrocortisone ...

Copy this HTML:

Copy HTML Copied!

What Is Fludrocortisone Used For?

Fludrocortisone is used to replace mineralocorticoid activity in conditions such as Addison disease and salt-losing congenital adrenal hyperplasia. It helps maintain blood volume and blood pressure. People with adrenal insufficiency may also need a separate glucocorticoid medicine.

How Does Fludrocortisone Work?

Fludrocortisone acts on the kidneys to increase sodium retention and potassium excretion. Water follows the retained sodium, helping support blood volume. The same effects can raise blood pressure or cause fluid retention if the dose is too high.

How Is Fludrocortisone Taken?

Fludrocortisone is taken by mouth on the schedule prescribed by a clinician. The dose may be adjusted using symptoms, blood pressure, and blood test results. Do not change or stop treatment without medical guidance.

What Are Fludrocortisone Side Effects and Precautions?

Possible effects include swelling, higher blood pressure, weight gain, and low blood potassium. Heart or kidney conditions may require closer monitoring. Report marked swelling, muscle weakness, or a substantial change in blood pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fludrocortisone

Is fludrocortisone the same as hydrocortisone?

No. Fludrocortisone mainly replaces mineralocorticoid activity, while hydrocortisone mainly replaces glucocorticoid activity.

What needs monitoring during fludrocortisone treatment?

Clinicians may check blood pressure, body weight, sodium, and potassium. These findings help guide the dose.

Can fludrocortisone cause swelling?

Yes. Its sodium and water retention effects can lead to swelling, especially if the dose is too high.

Can I stop taking fludrocortisone suddenly?

Do not stop it without speaking with the prescribing clinician. People who need adrenal hormone replacement require a plan to maintain that treatment.

References

Addison's disease - Diagnosis and treatment. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/addisons-disease/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350296. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Fludrocortisone. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564331/. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Fludrocortisone (Florinef): Uses & Side Effects. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19623-fludrocortisone-tablets. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Fludrocortisone (oral route) - Side effects & dosage. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/fludrocortisone-oral-route/description/drg-20063868. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.

Fludrocortisone Acetate. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682549.html. Date Accessed October 6, 2026.