Clinical information
Common uses
- adrenocortical insufficiency (Addison's disease)
- salt-losing adrenogenital syndrome
Common side effects
- high blood pressure
- swelling from salt and water retention
- low potassium
- weight gain
Cautions
- can mask or worsen infections
- salt intake, blood pressure and electrolytes need monitoring
- no vaccinations while on corticosteroid treatment
- long-term use can cause cataracts, glaucoma and bone loss
Interactions
- amphotericin B or potassium-depleting diuretics (low potassium)
- digitalis heart medicines (rhythm problems with low potassium)
- oral anticoagulants (reduced effect)
- diabetes medicines including insulin (work less well)
- aspirin (more ulcer risk)
- barbiturates, phenytoin or rifampin (steroid works less well)
Pregnancy: only if clearly needed
Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: DailyMed, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov, Fludrocortisone acetate label, setid 933e28ef-05e8-419e-a786-21eab67f33a2 (accessed 2026-08-16)