Indications 

Florinef is a corticosteroid medication prescribed to regulate the balance of fluids and sodium in the body. Its mechanism of action involves reducing the excretion of sodium in the urine.  

Florinef can be used alone or in combination with other medications to treat symptoms of Addison’s disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) and salt-losing forms of adrenogenital syndrome. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Florinef and every time you get a refill, peruse its patient information leaflet and medication guide. Do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions or clarifications. 

Florinef dosage is determined by disease severity and patient response, requiring continuous monitoring for necessary adjustments due to disease fluctuations and stress (e.g., surgery, infection, trauma). 

Typically, Florinef is taken once a day as directed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

To achieve optimal results, take Florinef regularly at the same time of the day every day. If you are taking it on an irregular schedule (such as only three days per week), it may be helpful to mark your calendar with a reminder. 

Strictly adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule of Florinef and take it precisely as directed; do not take more or less of it. 

Seek your doctor’s approval if you wish to discontinue taking Florinef, as abruptly stopping the drug may worsen some conditions. Your doctor may recommend gradually reducing your dose. 

Side Effects 

Potential adverse reactions associated with the use of Florinef are listed below. If any of them last or worsen, inform your physician promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Elevated blood pressure 
• Abdominal discomfort and bloating 
• Facial redness 
• Acne and excessive sweating 
• Insomnia 
• Indentations, scars, or bumps beneath the skin 
• Stretch marks 
• Heightened growth of body hair 

Serious Side Effects 

• Swelling in the feet or lower legs, rapid weight gain 
• Muscle weakness, loss of muscle mass 
• Blurred or tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights 
• Bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood 
• Unusual changes in mood or behavior 
• Seizures 
• Signs of increased pressure within the skull 
  • Severe headaches 
  • Ringing in the ears 
  • Dizziness 
  • Nausea 
  • Vision problems 
  • Pain behind the eyes 
• Signs of low levels of potassium 
  • Leg cramps 
  • Constipation 
  • Irregular heartbeats 
  • Fluttering in the chest 
  • Increased thirst or urination 
  • Numbness or tingling 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • A limp sensation 
• Symptoms of Pancreatitis 
  • Severe pain in the upper abdomen, which may radiate to the back 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
• Indication of elevated levels of adrenal gland hormones 
  • Weight gain in the face and shoulders 
  • Slow wound healing 
  • Skin discoloration 
  • Thinning skin 
  • Increased body hair 
  • Tiredness 
  • Mood changes 
  • Menstrual changes 
  • Sexual changes  

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Prompt medical attention should be sought if any signs of an allergic reaction to Florinef are observed, such as: 

• Rash 
• Difficult breathing 
• Severe dizziness 
• Itching or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

The adverse effects of Florinef listed here are not exhaustive. Inform your doctor right away if any unmentioned side effects occur and cause discomfort. 

Cautions 

Before taking Florinef, tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivity, especially to fludrocortisone acetate, other medications, or to other ingredients in Florinef. 

To ensure Florinef is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical history, especially of:  

• Bleeding disorders 
• Blood clots 
• Osteoporosis (brittle bones) 
• Diabetes 
• Eye issues (e.g., cataracts, glaucoma, eye infections) 
• Heart problems (e.g., congestive heart failure) 
• High blood pressure 
• Infections (e.g., candidiasis, valley fever, herpes, tuberculosis) 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis) 
• Mental or mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression, psychosis) 
• Low levels of blood minerals (e.g., calcium, potassium) 
• Stomach or intestinal problems (e.g., diverticulitis, peptic ulcer disease, ulcerative colitis) 
• Seizures 
• Thyroid issues 

Some products could potentially interact with Florinef, including: 

• Aldesleukin 
• Digoxin 
• Drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising, including: 
  • Antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel 
  • Blood thinners such as dabigatran or warfarin 
  • NSAIDs such as aspirin, celecoxib, or ibuprofen 
• Hormones such as: 
  • Androgens 
  • Birth control pills 
  • Estrogens 
• Immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine 
• Mifepristone 
• Vaccines 
• Medications that impact liver enzymes responsible for removing fludrocortisone from the body including: 
  • Rifamycins such as rifampin or rifabutin 
  • Certain anti-seizure drugs such as barbituates or phenytoin 

To prevent such drug interaction, tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medications, dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbal products you are presently taking or planning to take. 

A low dose of aspirin (usually 81-162 milligrams a day) prescribed for heart attack or stroke prevention should be continued to be taken unless advised otherwise by your doctor. 

Before undergoing certain laboratory tests, inform laboratory personnel and healthcare providers of Florinef’s use, as this medication may interfere with the tests, possibly causing false results. 

Florinef affects the body’s sodium and other salt levels, such as calcium and potassium. Adherence to the medical practitioner’s recommended dietary guidelines for appropriate salt, calcium, and potassium intake is essential. 

Florinef can increase susceptibility to illnesses. In the event of chickenpox, measles, or tuberculosis (TB) exposure, contacting a healthcare provider is necessary. 

Vaccination, immunization, and skin tests should not be performed while taking Florinef unless directed by a physician. 

Pregnant women should only take Florinef when deemed necessary. Taking this medication during pregnancy may cause adrenal gland problems in the baby. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with a healthcare provider before use. 

Fludrocortisone acetate can be transferred through breast milk, potentially causing unfavorable effects on the nursing infant. Consult with a physician before breastfeeding.