Desoxycorticosterone
Desoxycorticosterone is a synthetic mineralocorticoid hormone used primarily to treat adrenal insufficiency conditions such as Addison's disease. It works by promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion in the kidneys, helping maintain proper electrolyte balance and fluid volume. This medication is typically administered via injection and is often used when patients cannot take oral medications or require more precise hormone replacement.
Desoxycorticosterone is a mineralocorticoid used to treat adrenal insufficiency by helping regulate salt and water balance in the body.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- H02AA03
- RxNorm
- 3256
- Generic
- Desoxycorticosterone
- Class
- atc-h02
- Brands
- Zycortal, Percorten V
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- suspension
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), adrenal crisis, and conditions involving deficient mineralocorticoid production. May also be used in certain cases of salt-wasting syndromes.
Acts as a mineralocorticoid by binding to aldosterone receptors in the kidneys, promoting reabsorption of sodium and water while enhancing potassium excretion. This helps maintain blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and fluid volume.
Requires careful monitoring of blood pressure, electrolytes (especially sodium and potassium), and fluid status. Contraindicated in patients with hypertension, heart failure, or kidney disease. May cause fluid retention, hypokalemia, or hypernatremia. Treatment typically requires concurrent glucocorticoid replacement.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy