Fludrocortisone Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the classification of Fludrocortisone?

Androgen

Estrogen

Glucocorticoid

Mineralocorticoid (correct)

What therapeutic actions or indications does Fludrocortisone have?

Increases sodium reabsorption in renal tubules and increases potassium and hydrogen excretion, leading to water and sodium retention. Partial replacement therapy in cortical insufficiency conditions and treatment of salt-losing adrenogenital syndrome; off-label use for hypotension.

What drug interactions exist with Fludrocortisone?

Decreases the effectiveness of salicylates, barbiturates, hydantoins, rifampin, and anticholinesterases.

What are the pharmacokinetics of Fludrocortisone?

Taken orally; metabolized in the liver, excreted in urine. Gradual onset. Signup and view all the answers

What are some contraindications or cautions for using Fludrocortisone?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What are the common adverse effects of Fludrocortisone?

Frontal and occipital headaches, arthralgia, weakness, increased blood volume, edema, hypertension, heart failure, rash, anaphylaxis, hypokalemia. Signup and view all the answers

What nursing considerations are important when administering Fludrocortisone?

Use with appropriate glucocorticoids to maintain electrolyte balance, increase dose in times of stress, monitor for hypokalemia, discontinue if overdose signs occur. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Fludrocortisone Overview

Classification: Fludrocortisone is a mineralocorticoid.

Therapeutic Actions/Indications

Promotes sodium reabsorption in renal tubules, enhances potassium and hydrogen excretion.
Results in water and sodium retention.
Used as partial replacement therapy in conditions of cortical insufficiency.
Treats salt-losing adrenogenital syndrome.
Off-label use includes treatment for hypotension.

Drug Interactions

Fludrocortisone may decrease the effectiveness of:
- Salicylates
- Barbiturates
- Hydantoins
- Rifampin
- Anticholinesterase agents

Pharmacokinetics

Administered orally (PO).
Metabolized by the liver and excreted in urine.
Exhibits a gradual onset of action.

Contraindications/Cautions

Not suitable for patients with:
- Allergy to the drug
- Severe hypertension
- Heart failure or cardiac disease
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Infection
High sodium intake can lead to severe hypernatremia.

Adverse Effects

Potential side effects include:
- Frontal and occipital headaches
- Arthralgia (joint pain)
- General weakness
- Increased blood volume leading to edema
- Hypertension and heart failure
- Skin rash and risk of anaphylaxis
- Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)

Nursing Considerations

Administer only with appropriate glucocorticoids to control electrolyte balance.
Increase dosage during stress to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
Regularly monitor for hypokalemia.
Discontinue the medication if signs of overdose appear.

Description

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to Fludrocortisone, including its classification as a mineralocorticoid and its therapeutic actions. Ideal for students in pharmacology or medical courses, these cards will help reinforce understanding of its role in sodium reabsorption and treating various conditions. Review essential information efficiently and effectively.