Fludrocortisone tablets

About fludrocortisone

Fludrocortisone belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids. It is sometimes referred to simply as an oral steroid. It is used as a replacement treatment for people whose adrenal glands do not produce sufficient natural corticosteroids - a condition known as Addison's disease. It is also used for people who have had surgery to remove their adrenal glands and who therefore no longer produce natural corticosteroids.

The two natural corticosteroids which need replacing are called hydrocortisone (cortisol) and aldosterone. The body's natural hydrocortisone can be replaced by taking hydrocortisone as a tablet or injection, but a substitute medicine has to be used to replace the body's natural aldosterone. Fludrocortisone is the substitute medicine used. It is used because its action in the body is similar to that of aldosterone. It will help to regulate your blood pressure and blood salt level.

Before taking fludrocortisone

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking fludrocortisone it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have high blood pressure (hypertension).

• If you have had a heart attack or have any other heart problems.

• If you have liver or kidney problems.

• If you (or anyone in your family) have diabetes or increased eye pressure (glaucoma).

• If you have weakened bones (osteoporosis).

• If you have an underactive thyroid gland.

• If you have ever had a mental health problem - for example, depression.

• If you have epilepsy.

• If you have had a stomach ulcer or an inflammatory bowel disorder.

• If you have any kind of infection, or if you have ever had tuberculosis (TB).

• If you (or anyone you are in close contact with) have recently had chickenpox, measles or shingles.

• If you have ever had a blood clot in an artery or vein.

• If you have a condition known as myasthenia gravis, which causes muscle weakness, or if you have ever developed muscle pain after taking a steroid medicine.

• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take fludrocortisone

• Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack and be careful to follow any printed instructions you have also been given. The leaflet will give you more information about fludrocortisone and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how many tablets to take. This information will also be on the label of the packet of tablets to remind you. It is important that you take fludrocortisone exactly as your doctor has told you. It is usual to take fludrocortisone once daily, just after breakfast.

• Try to take your dose at the same time each day, as this will help you to remember to take it. If you do forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

• Continue to take fludrocortisone tablets regularly each day - it is vital for your well-being. Fludrocortisone replacement treatment is almost always lifelong.

Getting the most from your treatment

• You will be given a 'Steroid Treatment Card' which says that you are on steroids and contains some important advice for you. It is important that you read this card and carry it with you at all times. It also contains details about your dose, the length of time you have been taking fludrocortisone, and who prescribed it for you. Please make sure that this information is kept up to date.

• If you are having an operation or dental treatment or any treatment for an injury, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking fludrocortisone and show them your treatment card.

• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress. Your doctor will want you to have tests from time to time to make sure you remain free from some of the unwanted side-effects of treatment.

• If you become ill it is important that you make an appointment to see your doctor straightaway. Also, if you come into contact with anyone who has measles, shingles or chickenpox (or anyone who suspects they might have them), you should see your doctor as soon as possible.

• Make sure you get your next supply of tablets well in advance so that you never run out. People with Addison's disease are entitled to free NHS prescriptions.

• Some vaccines may not be suitable for you. If you need any immunisations, make sure you mention that you are taking fludrocortisone.

• If you need to buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable for you to take with your other medicines.

• 'Thinning' of the bones (osteoporosis) is more common in people with Addison's disease compared to the general population. Regular exercise, a good diet and not smoking will all help to prevent the development of osteoporosis, or reduce its severity.

Can fludrocortisone cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below lists some of the more common side-effects associated with fludrocortisone treatment.You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but other unwanted effects may develop with long-term fludrocortisone treatment. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Important: you should let your doctor know if you start to experience blurred vision or other vision problems whilst taking fludrocortisone.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store fludrocortisone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Some brands of fludrocortisone tablet may need to be stored in a refrigerator (between 2°C and 8°C). Check the manufacturer's information that comes with your medicine.

• Keep the container tightly closed.

Important information about all medicines