Drug Uses

Furosemide is a diuretic, which works by inhibiting the transmembranous protein NKCC2 that is responsible for the absorption of sodium, potassium, and chloride in the blood cells. The medication is administered as oral tablets in 20mg, 40mg, and 80mg strength, as 10 mg/ml and 40 mg/5 ml oral solution, and as 10mg/ml injections.

It is sold under a wide array of brand names, the most well known of which is Lasix. Other brand names include Aisemide, Apo-Furosemide, Beronald, Discoid, Diural, Dryptal, Durafurid, Edemid, Eutensin, Flusapex, Frudix, Frusid, Fulsix, Furesis, Furix, Furo-Puren, Hydro-rapid, Impugan, Katlex, Lasilix, Lodix, Lowpston, Macasirool, Mirfat, Nicorol, Odemase, Oedemex, Profemin, Rusyde, Salix, Trofurit, Uremide, and Urex.

The doses are determined individually and in the case of treating edema in adults, a single 20mg to 80mg dose could be administered and the same dose could be administered six to eight hours later. In some cases, Lasix (Furosemide) could be administered two to four times per week, while sever edema in hospitalized patients could be treated with even higher doses.

Warnings/Precautions

Before taking Lasix (Furosemide), tell your doctor if you are allergic to the medication, some of its inactive ingredients, or sulfa drugs, and inform him or her of all over the counter and prescription medications that you are taking. Tell your healthcare provider of all your medical problems, especially if you suffer from kidney disease, liver disease, lupus, diabetes, or gout.

You should also inform your physician if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or you are breastfeeding (you should not breast-fee while taking Furosemide). During the treatment, you might have to be tested regularly, so make sure that you keep all your doctor's appointments and follow the prescribed liquid intake as well.

The medication is known to interact with aminoglycoside antibiotics, which interaction increases their ototoxic potential, and therefore a combination of Furosemide and aminoglycoside antibiotic should be avoided.

Lasix (Furosemide) should be stored in its tightly closed container, away from the reach of children, and away from moisture and excess heat. Any unused Furosemide liquid should be thrown away after sixty days and the expired tablets should be disposed of in a safe manner. This medication is for you only and it should not be shared with anyone else!

Possible Side Effects

The most common side effects, which Furosemide causes, are thirst, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, weakness, muscle pain, uneven heartbeat, easy bruising, loss of appetite, stomach pain, dark urine, and jaundice.

Blurred vision, headache, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhea are possible as well.

For the full list of the possible adverse reactions, refer to the medication's leaflet, and if you experience severe or bothersome side effects, call your doctor immediately.

In case you have ringing in the ears, difficulty swallowing or breathing, rapid weight loss, sore throat, fever, unusual bleeding or bruising, or loss of hearing, contact your doctor at once!