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Furosemide |
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What is Furosemide and why is it prescribed? Furosemide is used in the treatment of high blood pressure and other conditions that require the elimination of excess fluid from the body. These conditions include congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney disease. When used to treat high blood pressure, Furosemide is effective alone or in combination with other high blood pressure medications. Diuretics help your body produce and eliminate more urine, which helps lower blood pressure. Furosemide is classified as a "loop diuretic" because of its point of action in the kidneys. Furosemide is also used with other drugs in people with fluid accumulation in the lungs. Furosemide acts quickly, usually within 1 hour. Furosemide does not cure high blood pressure but it keeps it under control. How should you take Furosemide? Follow your doctors directions for taking Furosemide. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Keep Furosemide in the container it came in, tightly closed, and away from direct light. Store at room temperature. Are there any Furosemide side effects? Furosemide side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Furosemide side effects may include anemia, blood disorders, blurred vision, constipation, cramping, diarrhea, dizziness, dizziness upon standing, fever, headache, hearing loss, high blood sugar, hives, itching, loss of appetite, low potassium (leading to symptoms like dry mouth, excessive thirst, weak or irregular heartbeat, muscle pain or cramps), muscle spasms, nausea, rash, reddish or purplish spots on the skin, restlessness, ringing in the ears, sensitivity to light, skin eruptions, skin inflammation and flaking, stomach or mouth irritation, tingling or pins and needles, vertigo, vision changes, vomiting, weakness, and yellow eyes and skin. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Furosemide? If Furosemide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to consult with your doctor before taking Furosemide with Aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as Garamycin), Aspirin and other salicylates, Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin), Indomethacin (Indocin), Lithium (Lithonate), Norepinephrine (Levophed), Other high blood pressure medications (such as Hytrin and Cardura), or Sucralfate (Carafate). Are there any special warnings about Furosemide? Furosemide can cause your body to lose too much potassium. Signs of an excessively low potassium level include muscle weakness and rapid or irregular heartbeat. To improve your potassium level, your doctor may prescribe a potassium supplement or recommend potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, raisins, and orange juice. Make sure the doctor knows if you have kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, gout, or the connective tissue disease, lupus erythematosus. Furosemide should be used with caution. If you are allergic to sulfa drugs, you may also be allergic to Furosemide. If you have high blood pressure, avoid over-the-counter medications that may increase blood pressure, including cold remedies and appetite suppressants. Your skin may be more sensitive to the effects of sunlight. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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