Furosemide

What Is It Used For?

Furosemide is a loop diuretic (“water pill”) used to:

• Treat fluid retention (edema) and swelling caused by:
  • Heart failure
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
• Treat high blood pressure (hypertension)

Furosemide works by helping the kidneys remove excess salt and water from the body through increased urination.

Common brand names include:

• Lasix
• Furocot

Important Precautions

Use with caution in patients with:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease or cirrhosis
• Diabetes
• Gout
• Hearing problems
• Low blood pressure
• Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium, sodium, magnesium, or calcium)
• Lupus (SLE)
• Difficulty urinating

Do NOT use in patients with:

• Anuria (inability to urinate)

Premature infants and elderly patients may require closer monitoring.

Drug & Food Interactions

Furosemide may interact with:

• Blood pressure medications
• NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen)
• Diabetes medications
• Lithium
• Digoxin
• Steroids
• Certain antibiotics
• Laxatives
• Alcohol

Taking sucralfate may reduce furosemide effectiveness. It should be taken at least 2 hours apart.

How To Take It?

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not take more or less than directed.
• Oral liquid should be measured carefully using a dosing device.
• Continue taking the medicine even if you feel well, especially for high blood pressure treatment.
• Follow dietary advice regarding salt, potassium, and fluid intake.

Missed dose:

• Take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose.
• Do not double doses.

Important Warnings

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe dehydration
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Hearing loss or ringing in the ears
• Difficulty breathing
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Severe skin rash or blistering

Furosemide may:

• Lower potassium and other electrolytes
• Increase blood sugar levels
• Increase sensitivity to sunlight
• Cause dizziness when standing suddenly

Patients should attend regular medical visits and may require blood or urine tests during treatment.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Increased urination
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Sensitivity to sunlight

Serious but less common side effects include:

• Hearing problems
• Severe dehydration
• Kidney problems
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Allergic skin reactions
• Liver problems

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature.
• Protect from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Patient Disclaimer

This summary is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Furosemide should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Do not stop, start, or change the dose of this medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you experience serious side effects or unusual symptoms.