US Brand Name: {Lasix} ({Furosemide})
Pharmacologic category: {Loop diuretics} Other medications in this category: {Bumetanide} ({Bumex}), {Torsemide} ({Demadex}), {Ethacrynic acid} ({Edecrin})
Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration
{Edema} associated with {congestive heart failure}: 20-80 mg/day orally or IV, may increase dose by 20-40 mg increments every 6-8 hours until desired effect is achieved
{Edema} associated with {liver cirrhosis}: 40-120 mg/day orally or IV, divided into 1-2 doses
{Edema} associated with {kidney disease} ({nephrotic syndrome}): 20-80 mg/day orally or IV, may increase dose by 20-40 mg increments every 6-8 hours until desired effect is achieved
{Acute pulmonary edema}: 40-80 mg IV, may repeat in 1-2 hours if needed
{Hypertension}: 40 mg/day orally, may increase to 80 mg/day if needed
{Hypercalcemia}: 40-100 mg IV, may repeat in 1-2 hours if needed
{Acute kidney injury}: 20-40 mg IV, may increase to 80 mg if needed
Dosage Forms and strengths:
Tablets: 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg Oral solution: 10 mg/mL Injection: 10 mg/mL
Administration Instructions:
Take orally with or without food If taking once daily, take in the morning to avoid nocturia If taking twice daily, take the second dose in the late afternoon Shake oral solution well before use
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:
{Dizziness} (5-10%): A sensation of lightheadedness or feeling faint {Headache} (1-5%): Pain or discomfort in the head or neck region {Hypotension} (1-5%): Low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting {Dehydration} (<1%): Excessive loss of body water, which can cause weakness, dizziness, or electrolyte imbalances {Electrolyte imbalances} (1-5%): Imbalances in blood levels of potassium, sodium, calcium, or magnesium
Contraindications:
Hypersensitivity to furosemide or sulfonamides {Anuria} (no urine production) Severe electrolyte imbalances
Drug to Drug Interactions:
{Aminoglycosides} (e.g., {Gentamicin}, {Tobramycin}): Increased risk of ototoxicity {Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)} (e.g., {Ibuprofen} [{Advil}], {Naproxen} [{Aleve}]): Reduced diuretic effect of furosemide {Digoxin} ({Lanoxin}): Increased risk of digoxin toxicity {Lithium}:
({Lithobid}): Increased risk of lithium toxicity
Pregnancy:
Furosemide is classified as pregnancy category C. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus.
Breastfeeding:
Furosemide is excreted in breast milk and may affect the nursing infant. Consult your healthcare provider before using furosemide while breastfeeding.
Estimated price of a 30-day supply:
A 30-day supply of furosemide (20 mg tablets) without insurance and utilizing a GoodRx coupon is approximately $4-$10.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.