Fludrocortisone (Florinef®)
What is fludrocortisone?
Fludrocortisone is a prescription medicine that helps the body keep the right balance of salt and fluids.
It is often used in children with adrenal gland conditions, including:
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Addison disease
Fludrocortisone helps the body hold onto salt and maintain healthy blood pressure.
What do the adrenal glands do?
The adrenal glands are small glands located on top of the kidneys. They make hormones that help control:
- Blood pressure
- Salt and water balance
- Stress response
- Energy levels
Some children do not make enough of these hormones and need medicine to replace them.
How is fludrocortisone taken?
Fludrocortisone is:
- Taken by mouth as a tablet
- Usually taken once or twice daily
- Best taken exactly as prescribed
Your child’s provider may also recommend extra salt in the diet, especially for babies and young children.
Do not stop this medicine suddenly unless your provider tells you to.
What if my child misses a dose?
If you forget a dose:
- Give it as soon as you remember
- If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose
- Do not give two doses at the same time
If you are unsure what to do, contact your healthcare team.
What are common side effects?
Many children do well on fludrocortisone. Possible side effects may include:
- Increased appetite
- Swelling of the hands or feet
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Higher blood pressure
Your child’s provider will monitor for side effects during clinic visits.
When should I call the doctor?
Call your child’s healthcare provider if your child has:
- Severe swelling
- Rapid weight gain
- Severe headaches
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Muscle weakness
- Dizziness or fainting
- Signs of dehydration
- High blood pressure symptoms, such as severe headache or blurry vision
Seek emergency care if your child is very weak, difficult to wake up, or has trouble breathing.
Important safety information
Your child may need:
- Regular blood pressure checks
- Blood tests to check salt levels
- Dose changes during illness or growth
Tell your child’s provider about all medicines your child takes.
Children with adrenal insufficiency may also need a stress-dose steroid plan for illness, surgery, or injury.
Tips for families
- Give the medicine at the same time each day
- Never stop the medicine suddenly
- Keep follow-up appointments
- Learn your child’s emergency plan
- Carry emergency medical information if recommended
Questions?
If you have questions about fludrocortisone, contact your pediatric endocrinology team at Endo For Kids.
