Fludrocortisone is a synthetic corticosteroid used to treat a variety of conditions, including high blood pressure, Addison's disease, and certain types of shock. It works by reducing the amount of salt and water the body retains, thereby decreasing blood volume and
Fludrocortisone acetate is a medication that is a prodrug form of fludrocortisone. This means that it needs to be processed by the body before it becomes active. Once converted, fludrocortisone acts as a synthetic form of a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands.
It is prescribed to treat Addison's disease, a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, and salt-losing congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic disorder that causes the adrenal glands to not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone.
Fludrocortisone works by helping the kidneys retain sodium (salt) in the body and eliminate potassium. This helps to regulate blood pressure and blood volume. It is typically taken as a tablet once or twice a day.