Medication Basics
Generic Name: Furosemide
Brand Name: Lasix
Medication Class: Diuretic – Loop
Description
Loop diuretics are widely used to treat several cardiac conditions which can cause fluid to back up all over the body; most notably, chronic or congestive heart failure. The loop diuretics are probably the single most effective drug to increase fluid elimination through urination and work by increasing the amount of sodium the kidney eliminates. They can often be used with other types of diuretics if they are ineffective by themselves. They can also be used to treat high blood pressure that fails to respond to multiple medications.
When Might My Doctor Prescribe This Medication?
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Chronic or congestive heart failure
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High blood pressure (or hypertension)
I Should NOT Take This Medication If:
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I have had severe allergic reactions to furosemide or other sulfa medications in the past
Adverse Effects (common)
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Frequent urination
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Low blood levels of potassium (supplementation usually required)
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Low blood levels of magnesium and calcium (supplementation may be required)
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Gout
Adverse Effects (rare, but serious)
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Acute kidney failure from dehydration
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Hearing loss
Common Adult Doses and Forms
Furosemide (Lasix): 20 mg to 160 mg once to twice daily
Dosage Forms:
Furosemide (Lasix) (tablet): 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg
How Should I Take This Medication?
Furosemide can be taken with or without meals. The evening dose may be taken earlier in the day to avoid frequent urination at night. Some doctors may have you take varying amounts of furosemide if you gain a certain amount of fluid weight, but this should only be done with your doctor’s instructions.
Please note that the content on CardioSmart is a summary of the most generally pertinent information about this drug but does not cover every side effect or precaution. However, everyone is unique, and the extent to which the information applies specifically to you should be a key point of discussion between you and your cardiologist or health care provider. The ultimate judgment regarding your care must be made by you and your healthcare provider together, in light of circumstances specific to you as a patient.
