Information on Furosemide

If you have

high blood pressure or fluid retention, your healthcare provider may prescribe furosemide (Lasix^®). This medication is a diuretic that works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This action causes a decrease in blood volume, which helps to lower blood pressure and can help with water retention caused by congestive heart failure, cirrhosis, or kidney failure.

In clinical studies, information gathered on furosemide showed that it significantly lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, the drug can also decrease the risk of developing health problems (such as a stroke, heart disease, or congestive heart failure) that can occur with long-term hypertension. Furosemide can also help with water retention by helping the body to get rid of extra fluid buildup.

The medication comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth once or twice a day, although it may be taken several times a day in certain circumstances. Since 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.

(Click Furosemide for more information on furosemide and its uses, effects, potential side effects, and dosing guidelines.)