Lasix

Drug Name

Lasix (Furosemide)

Drug Uses

 Lasix is a loop diuretic water retention (swelling) associated with heart failure, cirrhosis, chronic kidney failure, and nephrotic syndrome. It may also be used with other medication to cure conditions like high blood pressure.

How it is taken

Lasix is taken by mouth with a full glass of water. It must be taken for the entire duration of treatment. Do not stop taking it even if you start to feel better in a few days.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Lasix (Furosemide) is a potent diuretic (water pill) that eliminates fluid buildup in the body. Lasix works by stopping the absorption of salt and fluid in the kidney tubules. This leads to an increase in urination.

However, it may increase the loss of electrolytes in the body and hence constant monitoring is extremely crucial.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Lasix then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Warnings/Precautions

If you are allergic to sulfa then chances are that you may also be allergic to furosemide because of a similarity in the chemical structure of the medications.

Do not use Lasix if you have kidney failure.

While furosemide is an extremely potent drug in treating excess fluid accumulation in patients with cirrhosis, sudden loss of fluid and electrolytes in these patients can often worsen kidney function and even cause the patient to go into a coma.

Lasix can cause lowering of blood potassium, sodium, and magnesium levels. This may lead to heart rhythm abnormalities, especially in patients already taking digoxin (Lanoxin).

You may visit the digoxin (Lanoxin) site for further information.

Treatment with Lasix may increase the blood uric acid levels, but precipitation of acute gout is rare.

Lasix may increase the toxic effect of aminoglycoside antibiotics on the ear, especially in patients with kidney dysfunction.

Furosemide reduces the kidney excretion of lithium and can lead to lithium toxicity.

Furosemide may impair kidney function when administered together with aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Periodic blood tests are performed to monitor kidney function and electrolytes during treatment with furosemide.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are low blood pressure, and water and electrolyte depletion. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other less common side effects include jaundice, ringing in ears (tinnitus), light sensitivity, rash, pancreatitis, nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, anemia, and other blood disorders.

Other severe side effects include an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, or hives), muscle cramps or weakness, an irregular heartbeat, abdominal pain or diarrhea, low blood pressure (weakness, dizziness, fatigue), or decreased hearing.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.