Florinef (Fludrocortisone): What It Is, How It Works, and When to Use It

Florinef, also called fludrocortisone, is a synthetic hormone that mimics the body’s natural mineralocorticoid. Doctors mainly give it to people whose bodies can’t make enough of this hormone, such as those with Addison’s disease or certain forms of adrenal insufficiency. The drug helps the kidneys keep sodium and water, which in turn keeps blood pressure stable.

Why Doctors Prescribe Florinef

If you’ve been told you need Florinef, it’s probably because your doctor wants to balance the electrolytes that keep you feeling steady. Without enough mineralocorticoid activity, you can get low blood pressure, dehydration, and salty cravings. Florinef steps in to fill that gap, helping your body hold onto sodium and excrete potassium. It’s also used after certain surgeries that affect the adrenal glands, and sometimes in infants with congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Key Points to Remember When Taking Florinef

Take Florinef exactly as your doctor says – usually once a day in the morning with food. Swallow the tablet whole; don’t crush or chew it. Your doctor will probably check your blood pressure, sodium, and potassium levels after a few weeks, then regularly afterwards. If you feel dizzy, faint, or notice swelling in your ankles, call your doctor right away. Those can be signs that the dose is too high.

Alcohol can make the medication work less predictably, so limit drinks and discuss any planned binge drinking with your provider. Also, some over‑the‑counter medicines, like NSAIDs, can interfere with how Florinef works, so always ask before adding a new drug.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are special situations. Most doctors consider Florinef safe, but the dosage might need adjustment. Talk to your OB‑GYN or pediatrician if you’re expecting or nursing.

Storing Florinef is simple – keep it at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of kids, just like any prescription drug.

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