Furosemide



Lasix®







Furosemide

(fyoor OH se mide)

U.S. Brand Names
Lasix®
Canadian Brand Names
Apo-Furosemide®; Furosemide Injection, USP; Furosemide Special; Lasix®; Lasix® Special; Novo-Semide
Mexican Brand Names
Edenol®; Lasix®; Selectofur®[tabs]; Zafimida®
Pharmacologic Category
Diuretic, Loop
What key warnings should I know about before taking this medicine?
  • This medicine is a strong water pill. Sometimes too much water and important elements (potassium) in the blood can be lost. Your healthcare provider will follow you closely to change the dose to match your body's needs.
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to furosemide or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have a sulfonamide (“sulfa”) allergy, talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you have any of the following conditions: Coma from liver disease, kidney disease, liver disease, low calcium levels, low magnesium levels, or low potassium levels.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to get rid of extra fluid.
  • This medicine is used to treat high blood pressure.
  • This medicine is used to improve a weakened heart.
How does it work?
  • Furosemide gets rid of extra salt and water in the body through the kidneys.
How is it best taken?
  • Take this medicine early in the day to avoid sleep problems.
  • Take this medicine with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
  • A liquid (solution) is available if you cannot swallow pills.
  • Those who have feeding tubes can also use the liquid. Flush the feeding tube before and after medicine is given.
  • Follow diet plan and exercise program as recommended by healthcare provider.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • You may need potassium supplements. Talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you are taking this medicine and have high blood pressure, talk with healthcare provider before using over-the-counter products that may increase blood pressure. These include cough or cold remedies, diet pills, stimulants, ibuprofen or like products, and certain natural products or supplements.
  • Limit alcohol intake (includes wine, beer, and liquor).
  • You can get sunburned more easily. Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use sunscreen; wear protective clothing and eyewear.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • All forms:
  • Feeling dizzy. Rise slowly over several minutes from sitting or lying position. Be careful climbing.
  • Belly pain.
  • Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.
  • Constipation. More liquids, regular exercise, or a fiber-containing diet may help. Talk with healthcare provider about a stool softener or laxative.
  • Liquid:
  • Diarrhea with high doses.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Check blood pressure and heart rate regularly.
  • Check blood work (potassium, kidney function). Talk with healthcare provider.
  • Take good care of your teeth. See a dentist regularly.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe dizziness or passing out.
  • Severe nausea or vomiting.
  • Severe diarrhea.
  • Significant weight gain.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store liquid (solution) and tablets at room temperature. Do not freeze liquid (solution).
  • Protect liquid (solution) and tablets from light.
  • Protect tablets from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: