Common Use

Furosemide is a loop diuretic (water pill) that prevents your body from absorbing too much salt, allowing the salt to be passed in your urine. It treats fluid retention in people with congestive heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disorders like nephrotic syndrome. This medication is also used to manage high blood pressure.

Dosage and Direction

Take Furosemide exactly as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration. Follow your prescription label instructions. Use a dose-measuring spoon or cup for liquid medicine, and consult your pharmacist if you lack one. Your doctor may adjust your dose to ensure optimal results.

Precautions

Avoid dehydration by following your doctor's guidelines on fluid intake. Minimize exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays. Use sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

Contraindications

Before using Furosemide, inform your doctor if you have:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Gout
• Lupus
• Diabetes
• An allergy to sulfa drugs

It is unknown if Furosemide harms an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Furosemide may pass into breast milk and potentially harm a nursing baby. Consult your doctor before using while breastfeeding.

Possible Side Effects

Seek emergency medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling in your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Furosemide and contact your doctor immediately if you notice serious side effects like:

• Dry mouth, thirst, nausea, vomiting
• Weakness, drowsiness, restlessness, light-headedness
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Muscle pain or weakness
• Reduced urination or no urination
• Easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness
• Severe skin rash
• Hearing loss
• Symptoms of liver problems (nausea, stomach pain, dark urine, jaundice)

Less serious side effects may include:

• Diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain
• Headache
• Numbness, burning, tingling sensations
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision

Drug Interaction

If taking sucralfate (Carafate), take it at least 2 hours before or after Furosemide. Inform your doctor about all medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Do not start new medications without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention if you suspect an overdose. Symptoms may include ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, weakness, dizziness, confusion, or fainting.

Storage

Store Furosemide at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture. Liquid medicine should be used within 60 to 90 days after opening. Ask your pharmacist about its shelf life, and discard any unused liquid after the recommended period.

Disclaimer

The information provided is general and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions. We disclaim reliability for any errors or omissions and are not responsible for damages resulting from the use of this information or self-treatment.