Furosemide (
Lasix®) is a prescription medicine that is used as a diuretic for
high blood pressure and fluid retention. It is part of a class of medicines known as diuretics.
Brand-name furosemide is made by Hoechst Roussel Pharmaceuticals. Generic furosemide is made by several manufacturers.
Specific uses of the medication include:
How Does Furosemide Work?
Furosemide is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill.
" Specifically, furosemide is known as a "loop diuretic," named after the part of the kidneys that it affects (the loop of Henle). It works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, the medicine causes a decrease in blood volume. Because of this effect, it can
lower blood pressure and can also help with water retention.
When and How to Take Furosemide
Some general considerations for when and how to take the medication include:
- The drug comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth once or twice a day, although it may be taken several times a day in certain circumstances.
- You can take it with or without food.
- It should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood. However, some people do not need to take it every day, especially people taking it for fluid retention.
- Because furosemide increases urination, it is best to take it in the morning (to avoid needing to get up to use the bathroom throughout the night). If you take it multiple times per day, it is best to take the last dose of the day before 6 p.m. (unless you are instructed otherwise).
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may currently be taking
- How you respond to furosemide.
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
(Click Furosemide Dosing for more information about dosing guidelines for this medication.)
What Are the Side Effects?
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects. However, not everyone who takes this drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
A few of the possible side effects include:
- Low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia) or other electrolyte imbalances
- Dizziness
- Upset stomach (nausea) or vomiting
- Sensitivity to the sun.
(Click Side Effects of Furosemide to learn about specific side effects of the drug, including some of the more serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Furosemide
Furosemide can potentially interact with a number of medicines.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking furosemide if you have:
- Liver disease, including cirrhosis
- Kidney disease or kidney failure
- Diabetes
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus or SLE)
- Gout
- Fluid or electrolyte problems
- Any allergies, including allergies to sulfa drugs, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
People who take too much furosemide may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Dehydration
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Low electrolytes (especially low potassium, chloride, and sodium).
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
The medicine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Furosemide tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep this medication and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your furosemide as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with normal dosing. Do not take a double dose of furosemide.
Furosemide is available in the following strengths:
- Furosemide 20 mg tablets
- Furosemide 40 mg tablets
- Furosemide 80 mg tablets.
A liquid version of generic furosemide is also available in the following strengths:
- Furosemide 10 mg per 5 mL (10 mg per teaspoonful)
- Furosemide 40 mg per 5 mL (40 mg per teaspoonful).
Injectable generic furosemide is also available for use in hospitals.
Both brand-name and generic furosemide tablets are currently licensed for sale. Generic (but not brand-name) furosemide solution is also available.
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