Fludrocortisone

Fludrocortisone is a synthetic corticosteroid with strong mineralocorticoid activity. It promotes sodium and water retention while also exerting glucocorticoid effects.

Mineralocorticoid receptor: A steroid hormone receptor that regulates salt and water balance by changing gene expression in target cells. Fludrocortisone activates this receptor to increase sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion.
Primary adrenal insufficiency: A disorder in which damaged adrenal glands produce too little cortisol and often too little aldosterone. Fludrocortisone replaces mineralocorticoid activity when aldosterone production is deficient.
Aldosterone: The principal mineralocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. Fludrocortisone reproduces many of aldosterone’s effects but is a synthetic drug.
Edema: Swelling caused by excess fluid accumulating in body tissues. Excessive sodium and water retention can contribute to swelling during treatment.
Renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system: A hormonal system that regulates blood pressure, fluid balance, and sodium and potassium levels. Fludrocortisone mimics aldosterone, the system’s main mineralocorticoid hormone.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: A group of inherited disorders that impair adrenal steroid production and can disrupt cortisol and salt balance. Some forms cause salt loss and require mineralocorticoid replacement with fludrocortisone.
Hydrocortisone: The pharmaceutical form of cortisol, used for glucocorticoid replacement and anti-inflammatory treatment. Hydrocortisone provides stronger glucocorticoid replacement, while fludrocortisone has stronger salt-retaining activity.
Heart failure: A condition in which the heart cannot pump blood well enough to meet the body's needs. Fluid retention may worsen congestion in people with heart failure.
Epithelial sodium channel: A membrane channel that allows sodium ions to enter epithelial cells in the kidney and other tissues. Mineralocorticoid signaling increases its activity in kidney tubules, conserving sodium.
Orthostatic hypotension: A fall in blood pressure after standing that can cause dizziness or fainting. Fludrocortisone may expand circulating volume to help manage selected cases.

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