Desoxycorticosterone Acetate
Desoxycorticosterone Acetate is a synthetic mineralocorticoid hormone used primarily as replacement therapy in conditions of adrenal insufficiency, such as Addison's disease. It works by promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion in the kidneys, helping to maintain electrolyte balance and fluid homeostasis in patients whose adrenal glands cannot produce adequate natural hormones.
A synthetic mineralocorticoid used for adrenal insufficiency replacement therapy to help maintain sodium-potassium balance.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 258333
- Generic
- Desoxycorticosterone Acetate
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Treatment of adrenal insufficiency, including Addison's disease and adrenalectomy patients; may be used in salt-losing syndromes where mineralocorticoid replacement is needed.
Acts as an agonist at mineralocorticoid receptors in the kidneys, enhancing sodium reabsorption and water retention while promoting potassium excretion, thereby maintaining electrolyte balance and blood pressure.
Requires careful monitoring of electrolytes and blood pressure to avoid sodium retention, hypertension, hypokalemia, and fluid overload. Typically used in conjunction with glucocorticoid replacement. Not widely used in modern practice, having been largely replaced by other mineralocorticoid options.
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 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy