Effects of Furosemide

Furosemide (Lasix^®) is a diuretic medication that is available by prescription only. There are many beneficial effects of furosemide. The drug is commonly used for controlling high blood pressure (hypertension). It is also approved to treat water retention caused by kidney disease or kidney failure, congestive heart failure, or cirrhosis.

In clinical studies, furosemide has been shown to significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, the drug can decrease the risk of developing health problems (such as a stroke, heart disease, or congestive heart failure) that can occur with long-term hypertension. However, furosemide is not a cure for high blood pressure.

The medication can relieve water retention by helping the body to get rid of extra fluid buildup. As with high blood pressure, however, furosemide does not cure congestive heart failure or other conditions that cause the body to retain fluid.

(Click What Is Furosemide Used For? to learn more about the various effects of furosemide, how the medication works, and possible off-label uses.)