Lasix

furosemide

Brand(s):

• Lasix Frusenex Frusemide

Manufacturer:

• Aventis Pharma Limited / Geno Pharmaceuticals Limited / Medibest Pharma Pvt. Ltd.

Disease(s):

• Hypertension / Swelling / Congestive Heart Failure

Known as:

• Lasix

Furosemide Tablet

What is Furosemide?

Furosemide is a powerful diuretic, also known as a "water pill." It works by increasing the amount of urine your body produces, helping to eliminate excess salt and water. This makes it effective in treating several conditions, primarily:

• High blood pressure (hypertension): Furosemide helps lower blood pressure by reducing the volume of blood in your circulatory system.
• Edema (swelling): This swelling can be caused by various health issues, including heart failure, kidney disease, and liver disease. Furosemide helps reduce fluid retention, lessening the swelling.

Important Information Before Taking Furosemide

Before starting Furosemide, it's crucial to inform your doctor about your medical history. This includes:

• Electrolyte imbalances: Furosemide can affect your body's electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, etc.).
• Gastrointestinal issues: If you've experienced recent diarrhea or vomiting, let your doctor know, as this can impact how your body processes the medication.
• Gout: Furosemide can increase uric acid levels, potentially worsening gout.
• Heart disease: Existing heart conditions may be affected by Furosemide's effects on fluid balance.
• Kidney disease: Furosemide's effects on urine production are particularly relevant if you have kidney problems. It's vital your doctor monitors your kidney function.
• Liver disease: Liver problems can influence how your body metabolizes the medication.
• Allergies: If you have allergies to furosemide, sulfa drugs, or other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives, disclose this to your physician.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Furosemide use during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration and monitoring by your healthcare provider.

How to Take Furosemide

Take Furosemide orally with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but if it upsets your stomach, consider taking it with food or milk. Strictly follow your doctor's prescribed dosage; don't increase or decrease the frequency on your own. Remember that increased urination is a common and expected effect. Avoid taking it at a time that would disrupt your daily routine, such as bedtime.

Children's use of this medication should be discussed with their pediatrician. While it may be prescribed for certain pediatric conditions, special precautions might apply.

Overdosage: In case of suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or emergency room.

Important Note: This medication is for your personal use only. Do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Potential Drug Interactions

Furosemide can interact with various other medications. It's essential to provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications you are taking, including:

• Certain injectable antibiotics
• Other diuretics
• Heart medications (digoxin, dofetilide, nitroglycerin)
• Lithium
• Diabetes medications
• High blood pressure medications
• High cholesterol medications (cholestyramine, clofibrate, colestipol)
• Muscle relaxants used in surgery
• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, indomethacin)
• Phenytoin
• Steroid medications (prednisone, cortisone)
• Sucralfate

This list isn't exhaustive. Inform your doctor about all medications, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or supplements you use, including alcohol and tobacco use.

Monitoring While Taking Furosemide

Regular check-ups with your doctor are crucial to monitor your progress. Regularly monitor your blood pressure; your doctor can advise on target blood pressure levels and when to contact them. If you're diabetic, monitor your blood sugar as instructed.

You may need to adjust your diet while taking this medication. Consult your doctor for dietary recommendations and fluid intake guidelines; preventing dehydration is essential.

Drowsiness and dizziness are potential side effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you. Avoid sudden changes in posture (sitting or standing) to minimize dizziness or fainting, particularly for older individuals. Limit alcohol consumption, as it can exacerbate drowsiness.

Increased sun sensitivity is another potential side effect. Minimize sun exposure, wear protective clothing and sunscreen if sun exposure is unavoidable, and avoid tanning beds or sunlamps.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects requiring immediate medical attention:

• Blood in urine or stools
• Dry mouth
• Fever or chills
• Hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Irregular heartbeat
• Muscle pain or weakness, cramps
• Skin rash
• Stomach upset, pain, or nausea
• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
• Unusual weakness or fatigue
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but inform your doctor if they persist or worsen):

• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects.

Storage

Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F), protected from light. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.