Yes. Fludrocortisone is commonly used to treat orthostatic hypotension, especially neurogenic orthostatic hypotension or orthostatic symptoms due to autonomic dysfunction. It works by retaining salt and water in the kidneys, which increases blood volume and helps raise blood pressure when you stand.
Key points
- Typical dose: start often at 0.1 mg once daily in the morning. If needed, the dose may be increased to 0.2 mg daily after several days; some people may require up to about 0.3 mg/day under a clinician’s guidance.
- Monitoring: check standing and sitting blood pressure, weight, and signs of fluid overload. Monitor electrolytes (particularly potassium) and kidney function. Watch for edema, headaches, dizziness, or high blood pressure.
- Side effects and risks: can cause edema, increased blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, and potassium loss (hypokalemia). Long-term use can cause weight gain, facial rounding, mood changes, and other steroid-related effects.
- Contraindications and cautions: not recommended if you have severe hypertension or certain types of heart failure with edema. Use with caution in kidney disease, diabetes, or when taking other medicines that affect potassium or blood pressure. Tell your clinician about all medications (diuretics, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, NSAIDs, etc.).
- Practical tips: take in the morning. Non-drug measures for orthostatic hypotension include gradual position changes, adequate hydration, and compression stockings. Avoid unnecessary salt substitutes high in potassium unless advised by your doctor.
If you’d like, tell me more about your health conditions, current meds, and your symptoms. I can tailor the dosing and monitoring plan to your situation or help you decide what questions to ask your prescriber.