* Furosemide significantly increases urination by inhibiting the
reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the cells of the kidneys. It
may be used to treat excessive fluid retention.
* Furosemide belongs to the class of medicines known as loop
diuretics. It is a potent loop diuretic.
Upsides
* Used to relieve the body of excess fluid caused by heart failure,
kidney failure, cirrhosis of the liver and other conditions.
* May be used in addition to other medicines for the treatment of
high blood pressure.
* Available as an injectable form.
* Generic furosemide is available.
Downsides
If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or
have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to
experience include:
* Dizziness on standing, gastrointestinal disturbances, changes in
blood counts, and alterations in cholesterol levels or liver
function.
* Furosemide's effect is very strong. Use can lead to a significant
depletion of electrolytes which may lead to side effects such as
muscle cramps and an irregular heart beat; risk is greater in
people with a restricted salt intake or on certain medications.
* Tinnitus and reversible or irreversible hearing impairment have
been reported. The risk is greater with higher dosages, injectable
furosemide, severe renal impairment, low protein levels, and
concomitant therapy with other drugs that are also toxic to the
ears.
* May increase blood glucose levels and affect laboratory test
results.
* Older people may not respond as well to the initial diuretic effect
of furosemide.
* May not be suitable for some people including those with cirrhosis
of the liver or ascites, kidney disease, already electrolyte
depleted or dehydrated.
* May interact with a number of other drugs including those that also
lower blood pressure or potassium, lithium, corticosteroids,
digoxin, phenytoin and methotrexate.
Notes: In general, seniors or children, people with certain medical
conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes,
seizures) or people who take other medications are more at risk of
developing a wider range of side effects. For a complete list of all
side effects, [84]click here.
Bottom Line
Furosemide significantly increases urination which relieves excess
fluid, but its use may also lead to the depletion of certain
electrolytes in the body (such as potassium).
Tips
* Dosages may need to be adjusted depending on the individual; higher
dosages need extra monitoring by a doctor. Some individuals may
only need furosemide two to four times per week.
* You may be more sensitive to sunlight while taking furosemide; use
an SPF 30-50+ sunblock when outside.
* Tell your doctor if you develop diarrhea or vomiting while taking
furosemide.
* Get up slowly when going from a lying down or sitting position to
standing.
* Your electrolyte levels will need monitoring regularly including
occasional testing for diabetes.
* Potassium supplements or extra dietary potassium may be needed to
counteract the effects of low potassium caused by furosemide.
* If you have diabetes, be aware that furosemide may increase your
blood glucose levels.
Response and Effectiveness
* The onset of diuresis (increased urination) is within an hour. The
peak effects of furosemide are seen within one to two hours and its
effects last for 6 to 8 hours.
* Furosemide is very potent. Excessive amounts can lead to profound
urination and water and electrolyte loss. Severe dehydration may
result.
References
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