Furosemide Injection (IM & IV)

What Is It Used For?

Furosemide injection is a powerful loop diuretic (“water pill”) used when rapid removal of excess fluid is needed or when oral treatment is not possible.

It is commonly used to treat:

• Acute pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs)
• Congestive heart failure
• Severe edema caused by kidney or liver disease
• Hypertensive emergencies (in some cases)

Furosemide injection works by increasing urine production, helping the body remove excess salt and water quickly.

It may be administered:

• Intravenously (IV)
• Intramuscularly (IM)

IV administration is generally preferred for faster action.

Important Precautions

Use with caution in patients with:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease or cirrhosis
• Diabetes
• Gout
• Low blood pressure
• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Hearing problems

Do NOT use in patients with:

• Anuria (inability to produce urine)
• Severe electrolyte depletion unless corrected

Elderly patients and critically ill patients may require close monitoring.

Important Monitoring

During treatment, healthcare providers may monitor:

• Blood pressure
• Kidney function
• Urine output
• Electrolyte levels (potassium, sodium, magnesium)
• Fluid balance

Rapid IV administration may increase the risk of hearing damage (ototoxicity).

Drug Interactions

Furosemide injection may interact with:

• Blood pressure medicines
• Digoxin
• Lithium
• Aminoglycoside antibiotics
• NSAIDs
• Corticosteroids
• Diabetes medications

Alcohol may increase dizziness and dehydration risk.

Important Warnings

Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of the following occur:

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

This medicine may also:

• Increase blood sugar levels
• Cause electrolyte imbalance
• Cause sudden drops in blood pressure
• Increase sensitivity to sunlight

Common Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Increased urination
• Dizziness
• Low blood pressure
• Headache
• Injection site irritation
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Weakness

Serious side effects may include:

• Severe dehydration
• Kidney problems
• Hearing impairment
• Electrolyte disturbances
• Severe allergic skin reactions

Administration Notes

• IV furosemide should usually be given slowly to reduce the risk of hearing damage.
• IM injection is generally used only when IV or oral administration is not possible.
• Administration should be performed by qualified healthcare professionals.

Storage Instructions

• Store according to manufacturer instructions.
• Protect from excessive light and heat.
• 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 injection should only be administered under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals. Patients should not self-administer injectable furosemide unless specifically instructed by their healthcare provider. Contact a healthcare professional immediately if serious side effects or unusual symptoms occur.