What is Lasix (Furosemide) used for?

Lasix (Furosemide) is an oral diuretic prescribed to treat patients suffering from edema caused by heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or kidney failure. The medication operates by preventing sodium absorption to draw excess water out of the body to be eliminated through urination. This may also make it useful for reducing high blood pressure or treating angina. Your physician may prescribe it to treat other unlisted conditions, as well.

How should I use Lasix (Furosemide)?

Strictly follow your physician's instructions while using Lasix (Furosemide) to get the most effective results from treatment. The typical dosage is one tablet taken once or twice daily, but your individual treatment will be determined by your health condition and the severity of your symptoms. These should be swallowed with a large glass of water and may be taken on an empty stomach. You are suggested to increase your fluid intake while using the medication as increased urination may cause dehydration. Do not take your daily dose within four hours of going to sleep as increased urination may cause sleep disturbances. Never crush or split the tablets prior to use to avoid destroying or altering their effects. Ask your physician or pharmacist any questions you have about the medicine to make sure you are using it correctly.

What are the side effects of Lasix (Furosemide)?

Side effects that may occur while using Lasix (Furosemide) are:

• Dizziness or unsteadiness
• Upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation
• Mild skin rash or irritation

Serious side effects possibly requiring emergency medical attention are faintness, unusual weight loss, severe stomach pain, low potassium levels, low calcium levels, chest pain, sensitive skin, easier bleeding, tinnitus, severe skin reactions, darkened urine, discolored stools, or jaundice. Immediately inform your physician about any severe or worrying symptoms to make sure the correct changes are made to your dosage or frequency of administration to prevent more complications from appearing.

Please Note

Lasix (Furosemide) should not be used by patients who are breastfeeding, allergic to sulphonamide medications, have kidney failure, dehydration, hepatic encephalopathy, low blood volume, low potassium levels, or low sodium levels. Also disclose if you are elderly, have gout, diabetes, urinary retention, an enlarged prostate, hypotension, low protein levels, decreased liver function, or decreased kidney function. These conditions may require special adjustments to your dosage or frequency of application to prevent unexpected problems from occurring.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Lasix (Furosemide). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.