Brand
name: Furosemide
/ Lasix
Pronounced: LAY-six
Generic name: Furosemide
Why is Furosemide prescribed?
Furosemide is used in the treatment of high blood pressure and other
conditions that require the elimination of excess fluid (water) from
the body. These conditions include congestive heart failure, cirrhosis
of the liver, and kidney disease. When used to treat high blood pressure,
Furosemide is effective alone or in combination with other high blood
pressure medications. Diuretics help your body produce and eliminate
more urine, which helps lower blood pressure. Furosemide is classified
as a "loop diuretic" because of its point of action in the
kidneys.
Furosemide is also used with other drugs in people with fluid accumulation
in the lungs.
Most important fact about Furosemide
Furosemide acts quickly, usually within 1 hour. However, since blood
pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get
the full benefit of Furosemide; and you must continue taking it even
if you are feeling well. Furosemide does not cure high blood pressure;
it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Furosemide?
Take Furosemide exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Furosemide side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Furosemide.
* Side effects may include:
Anemia, blood disorders, blurred vision, constipation, cramping, diarrhea,
dizziness, dizziness upon standing, fever, headache, hearing loss,
high blood sugar, hives, itching, loss of appetite, low potassium
(leading to symptoms like dry mouth, excessive thirst, weak or irregular
heartbeat, muscle pain or cramps), muscle spasms, nausea, rash, reddish
or purplish spots on the skin, restlessness, ringing in the ears,
sensitivity to light, skin eruptions, skin inflammation and flaking,
stomach or mouth irritation, tingling or pins and needles, vertigo,
vision changes, vomiting, weakness, yellow eyes and skin
Why should Furosemide not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Furosemide
or diuretics, or if you are unable to urinate, you should not take
Furosemide.
Special warnings about Furosemide
Furosemide can cause your body to lose too much potassium. Signs of
an excessively low potassium level include muscle weakness and rapid
or irregular heartbeat. To improve your potassium level, your doctor
may prescribe a potassium supplement or recommend potassium-rich foods,
such as bananas, raisins, and orange juice.
Make sure the doctor knows if you have kidney disease, liver disease,
diabetes, gout, or the connective tissue disease, lupus erythematosus.
Furosemide should be used with caution.
If you are allergic to sulfa drugs, you may also be allergic to Furosemide.
If you have high blood pressure, avoid over-the-counter medications
that may increase blood pressure, including cold remedies and appetite
suppressants.
Your skin may be more sensitive to the effects of sunlight.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking
Furosemide
If Furosemide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to consult with your doctor before taking Furosemide with any of the
following:
Aminoglycoside antibiotics such as Garamycin
Aspirin and other salicylates
Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Lithium (Lithonate)
Norepinephrine (Levophed) Other high blood pressure medications such
as Hytrin and Cardura
Sucralfate (Carafate)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Furosemide during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your
doctor immediately. Furosemide appears in breast milk and could affect
a nursing infant. If Furosemide is essential to your health, your doctor
may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is
finished.
Recommended dosage for Furosemide
Your doctor will adjust the dosages of this strong diuretic to meet
your specific needs.
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. An overdose
of Furosemide can cause symptoms of severe dehydration. If you suspect
an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
* Symptoms of Furosemide overdose may include:
Dry mouth, excessive thirst, low blood pressure, muscle pain or cramps,
nausea and vomiting, weak or irregular heartbeat, weakness or drowsiness
If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time
for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage instructions...
Keep Furosemide in the container it came in, tightly closed, and away
from direct light. Store at room temperature.
