Lasix (Furosemide)
Lasix (Furosemide) is a loop diuretic (water pill) that prevents your body from absorbing too much salt, allowing the salt to instead be passed in your urine. Lasix treats fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, liver disease, or a kidney disorder such as nephrotic syndrome. Lasix (Furosemide) is also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
Lasix Dosage
The dose of Furosemide will be different for different patients. Follow your doctors orders or the directions on the Lasix label. The following information includes only the average doses of Furosemide. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The amount of Lasix that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the Lasix.
Lasix dosage for edema:
Adults - At first, 20 to 80 milligrams (mg) of Lasix once a day. Your doctor will adjust your dose as needed.
Children — Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor.
Lasix dosage for high blood pressure:
Adults — At first, 40 milligrams (mg) of Furosemide two times a day. Your doctor will adjust your dose as needed.
Children — Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
If you miss a dose of Lasix
If you miss a dose of Lasix, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 Lasix doses at the same time.
Side effects of Lasix
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON Lasix side effects persist or become bothersome:
Dizziness; light headedness; sensitivity to sunlight.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE Furosemide side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); calf pain or tenderness; confusion; dark urine; decreased or persistent increased urination; drowsiness; dry mouth; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or sore throat; hearing decrease or loss; muscle pain/cramps/weakness; restlessness; ringing in the ears; severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or dizziness; shortness of breath; sluggishness; stomach pain; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual thirst or hunger; unusual tiredness or weakness; vein inflammation; yellow vision; yellowing of the skin or eyes.
