Furosemide Strengths

Furosemide (
 Lasix®) is a prescription drug commonly used for controlling high blood pressure. It is also licensed to treat fluid retention caused by congestive heart failure, cirrhosis, or kidney failure. The medication comes in tablet form and is available in three different strengths, including 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg. For the liquid version of generic furosemide, strengths include 10 mg per 5 mL and 40 mg per 5 mL).
 
Furosemide is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." It works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is then passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, furosemide causes a decrease in blood volume. Because of this effect, it can lower blood pressure and help with water retention.
 
(Click Furosemide to learn more about the various furosemide strengths and forms, exactly how the medication works, and what side effects to look out for during treatment.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;