What is Lasix (Furosemide) used for?

Lasix (Furosemide) is an oral diuretic medicine prescribed to treat patients with oedema caused by heart failure, kidney failure, of liver cirrhosis. It operates by preventing sodium absorption in the kidneys to draw excess fluid out of the body to be eliminated through urination. Your doctor may also prescribe this medication for the treatment of other conditions that are not listed here.

How should I use Lasix (Furosemide)?

Lasix (Furosemide) is normally administered once daily at a dosage of one tablet taken in the morning, but your particular instructions will be determined by your doctor based on your age, weight, health condition, and the severity of your symptoms. These doses should be swallowed with a full cup of water and may be taken with or without food, although a snack or meal is recommended prior to use if you experience nausea. You are suggested to greatly increase your fluid intake to prevent dehydration caused by increased urination. Never crush or split the medication before use to avoid destroying or changing the effects of its contents. Your are not recommended to take this medication just prior to going to bed as increased urination frequency may disturb your sleep.

What are the side effects of Lasix (Furosemide)?

Lasix (Furosemide) may cause side effects in some patients such as:

• Headache
• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Upset stomach, diarrhoea, or constipation
• Mild nausea
• Mild skin rash or irritation

Stop using the medication and contact your doctor as soon as you experience any serious side effects including severe headaches, sensitive skin, easier bruising, chest pain, unusual swelling, severe stomach pain, low potassium levels, low calcium levels, severe skin reactions, darkened urine, discoloured stools, or jaundice. These conditions may require lower doses, reduced application frequency, or emergency medical attention in serious cases to prevent further complications from occurring.

Please Note

Lasix (Furosemide) should not be administered to patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to sulphonamide medications, who have had a bad reaction to similar treatments in the past, dehydration, hepatic encephalopathy, hypokalaemia, hyponatraemia, anuria, kidney failure caused by poisoning, hepatic coma, or hypovolaemia. Also inform your doctor if you have gout, diabetes, difficulty urinating, prostatic hypertrophy, hepatorenal syndrome, hypotension, decreased liver function, decreased kidney function, or kidney failure caused by liver failure. These conditions may cause unexpected health problems requiring adjustments to your regimen.

Strictly use Lasix (Furosemide) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Lasix (Furosemide) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.