Drug Detail:Fludrocortisone (Fludrocortisone [ floo-droe-kor-ti-sone ])
Drug Class: Mineralocorticoids
Usual Adult Dose for Addison's Disease
0.1 mg orally per day
Maintenance dose: 0.1 mg orally 3 times a week to 0.2 mg orally per day
Comments:
- If transient hypertension occurs as a consequence of therapy, dose should be reduced to 0.05 mg per day
- Often given concomitantly with cortisone or hydrocortisone.
Use: For partial replacement therapy for primary and secondary adrenocortical insufficiency in Addison's disease
Usual Adult Dose for Adrenogenital Syndrome
0.1 to 0.2 mg orally per day
Use: For the treatment of salt-losing adrenogenital syndrome
Renal Dose Adjustments
Use with caution.
Liver Dose Adjustments
Use with caution.
Precautions
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
- Hypersensitivity to the active component or to any of the ingredients
- Systemic fungal infections
Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.
Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.
Dialysis
Data not available
Other Comments
Administration advice:
- Doses are dependent upon severity of the disease and response of individual patients.
- Continually monitor patients for signs that indicate dose adjustment may be necessary, including remission or exacerbations of disease and stress (surgery, infection, trauma).
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as it is remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose; doses should not be doubled.
Storage requirements:
- Avoid excessive heat.
- Dispense in a tightly closed, light-resistant container.
Monitoring:
- Cardiovascular: Monitor blood pressure regularly.
- Metabolic: Monitor serum electrolytes regularly.
Patient advice:
- Report any medical history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney or liver disease and current use of any medicines.
- Avoid exposure to chicken pox or measles if on immunosuppressant doses.
- Carry an adequate supply of medication for use in emergencies.
- Notify your physician of dizziness, severe or continuing headaches, swelling of feet or lower legs, or unusual weight gain.