Fludrocortisone: what it does and how to use it

Fludrocortisone is a synthetic mineralocorticoid medicine used to help your body hold onto salt and water. Doctors prescribe it mainly for adrenal (mineralocorticoid) insufficiency — think Addison's disease — and for some cases of orthostatic hypotension or salt-wasting conditions. It helps keep blood pressure up and prevents low sodium or low blood volume.

How doctors use fludrocortisone

Typical oral doses are small. Most people start around 0.05 mg (50 mcg) once daily; common ranges run from 0.05–0.2 mg per day depending on response. Your doctor adjusts the dose by watching your blood pressure, weight, and blood tests, especially potassium. If you feel dizzy when standing or your blood pressure stays low despite other steps, your clinician might add or change fludrocortisone.

Take it exactly as prescribed. Many patients take their dose in the morning to reduce the chance of overnight swelling or needing to urinate at night. Keep using any other steroid replacement (like hydrocortisone) as instructed — mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid needs are separate but both matter.

Side effects, monitoring and practical tips

Common effects come from extra salt and water: swelling, weight gain, high blood pressure, and low potassium (hypokalemia). Watch for ankle swelling, a fast increase in weight, shortness of breath, or headaches — tell your provider if these happen. Low potassium can cause muscle weakness, cramps, or irregular heartbeat.

Your doctor will usually check your blood pressure and potassium soon after starting or changing the dose (often within 1–2 weeks) and then at regular intervals. Weigh yourself regularly and report sudden gains of more than 1–2 kg in a few days. If you take diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, potassium supplements, or strong blood pressure drugs, dosing and monitoring need careful coordination.

A few quick safety notes: don't take fludrocortisone if you have an active systemic fungal infection. If you have heart failure, severe hypertension, or uncontrolled fluid overload, mention that — fludrocortisone can make fluid retention worse. Tell your provider if you're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding; your doctor will weigh risks and benefits.

Never change the dose or stop suddenly without medical advice. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember the same day; skip it if it's nearly time for the next dose — don't double up. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture and kids.

Thinking about getting fludrocortisone online? Use only licensed pharmacies and a valid prescription. If anything feels off — new swelling, fast heart rate, severe dizziness — contact your provider or seek urgent care. With the right dose and checks, fludrocortisone can make everyday life steadier for people with low mineralocorticoid function.