Overdose With Furosemide: An Overview
Furosemide (
Lasix®) is a medication used for
controlling high blood pressure and treating water retention (edema). Even though it happens rarely, a person can take too much furosemide, just like any other medication. The effects of a furosemide overdose will vary, depending on a number of factors, including how much was taken and whether it was taken with any other medicines, alcohol, and/or drugs.
Symptoms of a Furosemide Overdose
The effects of an overdose of furosemide may include:
- Dehydration
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Low electrolytes (especially low potassium, chloride, and sodium).
This may cause signs or symptoms that include:
- Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
- A decrease in urine output
- Drowsiness, headaches, or back pain
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Dry mouth
- Increased thirst
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Restlessness
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Muscle pain or cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of consciousness.
Treatment for a Furosemide Overdose
The treatment for an overdose with furosemide also will vary.
If the overdose was recent, a healthcare provider may use certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." Treatment may also involve supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV)
- Medications to increase blood pressure
- Electrolyte replacement
- Other treatments based on the complications that occur
- Close monitoring of the heart and lungs.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have taken too much furosemide.
