Furosemide is a loop diuretic medication used to treat edema and volume overload due to heart failure, liver scarring, or kidney disease. It works by decreasing the reabsorption of sodium by the kidneys. It may also be used for the treatment of hypertension. It can be taken orally, IM or IV. When taken orally, it typically begins working within an hour, while intravenously, it typically begins working within five minutes.
Common side effects include feeling lightheaded withstanding, tinnitus, and photosensitivity.
Potentially serious side effects include electrolyte abnormalities (hypokalemia), hypotension, dizziness and autotoxicity. Blood tests are recommended regularly for those on treatment.
Synonyms
Apo-Furosemide, Bio-Furosemide, Dom-Furosemide, Frusol, Lasix, Lasix Special, Novosemide, Nu-Furosemide, PMS-Furosemide