Prescription Drug Index
FUROSEMIDE
This is a Generic Prescription Drug
Furosemide
Pronounced: FEW-rose-a-mide
Other Name(s): Lasix
Furosemide is used in the treatment of high blood pressure and other conditions that require the elimination of excess fluid (water) 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.
Your doctor will adjust the dosages of this strong diuretic to meet your specific needs.
ADULTS
Fluid Retention
You will probably be started at a single dose of 20 to 80 milligrams. If needed the same dose can be repeated 6 to 8 hours later or the dose may be increased. Your doctor may raise the dosage by 20 milligrams or 40 milligrams with each successive administration-- each 6 to 8 hours after the previous dose--until the desired effect is achieved. This dosage is then taken once or twice daily thereafter. Your doctor will most likely monitor you carefully using laboratory tests. The maximum daily dose is 600 milligrams.
High Blood Pressure
The usual starting dose is 80 milligrams per day divided into 2 doses. Your doctor will adjust the dosages and may add other high blood pressure medications if Furosemide is not enough.
CHILDREN
The usual initial dose is 2 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight given in a single oral dose. The doctor may increase subsequent doses by 1 to 2 milligrams per 2.2 pounds. Doses are spaced 6 to 8 hours apart. A child’s dosage will be adjusted to the lowest needed to achieve maximum effect and should not exceed 6 milligrams per 2.2 pounds.
Note:
The content in this section is provided for informational purposes only. This information regarding the following Canadian drugs is not intended to replace or act as a substitute for information or advice provided by your physician. You should always consult a physician before beginning a new medication. Moreover, prescription drugs should only be obtained with a doctor's prescription.
If you would like more information on different medications, please click here for a list of the most reliable sites on the internet for prescription drug information.