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Home » Blood and Heart » Furosemide, Lasix
Furosemide
Generic name: Furosemide
Brand names: Lasix
Manufacturer: Various
Furosemide or frusemide (former BAN) is a loop diuretic used in the treatment of congestive heart failure and edema. It has also been used to prevent thoroughbred and standardbred race horses from bleeding through the nose during races.
This drug is shipped in blisters.
Lasix
Brand Names: Lasix
Generic name: Furosemide
Manufacturer: Aventis
Lasix 500
Brand Names: Lasix
Generic name: Furosemide
Manufacturer: Hoechst Ag
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM
Furosemide is a potent diuretic (water pill). Furosemide works by blocking the absorption of salt and fluid in the kidney tubules, causing a profound increase in urine output (diuresis). The diuretic effect of furosemide can cause body water and electrolyte depletion. Therefore, careful medical supervision is necessary during treatment.
STORAGE
Should be stored at room temperature in a light resistant container.
PRESCRIBED FOR
Furosemide is a powerful diuretic. Furosemide is used to treat excessive fluid accumulation and swelling (edema) of the body caused by heart failure, cirrhosis, chronic kidney failure, and nephrotic syndrome. It is sometimes used in conjunction with other blood pressure pills to treat high blood pressure.
PRECAUTIONS
Patients allergic to sulfa may also be allergic to furosemide because of a similarity in the chemical structure of the medications. Furosemide should be avoided in kidney failure. Even though furosemide is important in treating excess fluid accumulation in patients with cirrhosis, sudden loss of fluid and electrolytes in these patients can worsen kidney function and even cause the patient to go into a coma. Furosemide can cause lowering of blood potassium, sodium, and magnesium levels. Low potassium and magnesium levels can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities, especially in patients already taking digoxin (Lanoxin). Please visit the digoxin (Lanoxin) site for further information.
Blood uric acid levels can increase during furosemide treatment, but precipitation of acute gout is rare. Furosemide may increase the toxic effect of aminoglycoside antibiotics on the ear, especially in patients with kidney dysfunction. Furosemide reduces the kidney excretion of lithium and can lead to lithium toxicity. Furosemide may impair kidney function when administered together with aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Periodic blood tests are performed to monitor kidney function and electrolytes during treatment with furosemide.
SIDE EFFECTS
Commonly observed side effects are low blood pressure, and water and electrolyte depletion. Less common side effects include jaundice, ringing in ears (tinnitus), light sensitivity, rash, pancreatitis, nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, anemia, and other blood disorders.
WARNING
This is a very potent medication. Using too much of this drug can lead to serious water and mineral loss. Therefore, it is important that you are closely monitored by your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you become very thirsty or confused, or develop muscle cramps/weakness while taking this medication. See also Side Effects section.
USES
Furosemide is a "water pill" (diuretic) that increases the amount of urine you make, which causes your body to get rid of excess water. This drug is used to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This medication also reduces swelling/fluid retention (edema) which can result from conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease. This can help to improve symptoms such as trouble breathing.
OTHER USES
This medication may also be used to decrease excess calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia).
HOW TO USE
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. In children, doses greater than 6 mg per kilogram of body weight are not recommended. It is best to take this medication early in the day, before 4-6PM, to prevent having to wake up during the night to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time(s) of the day as directed. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Sucralfate, cholestyramine, and colestipol can decrease the absorption of furosemide. If you are taking any of these drugs, separate them from furosemide by at least 2 hours. If your condition persists or worsens, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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