Furosemide (Lasix)

Description

Furosemide, also known as Lasix, is a medication used to treat hypertension. It is a water pill that reduces the amount of unwanted fluid in the body. This fluid consists of salt and water and increases the severity of conditions such as high blood pressure.

 

How it works

 

The medication works by getting rid of excess of edema in the body through increased urination. When the level of excess water and salt is reduced, blood pressure and other illnesses also become less severe.

 

Its uses

 

Furosemide is used to treat a number of diseases including high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It also reduces the risk of strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems to a great extent. It reduces shortness of breath and swelling of the abdomen. The medication is also used to treat hypercalcemia –calcium deficiency in the blood.

 

Dosage

 

This medication must be taken once/twice on a daily basis. You can take the medication with or without food. Your dosage can differ to that of another person since it depends on your personal health condition and response to the treatment. The dosage for children are based on their weight. Be careful with the measurement of the medication. Overdosing can not only increase the risk of side effects, but can also result in irreversible hearing loss.

 

Side effects

 

Keep an eye out for the following physical and psychological effects since they can occur due to the long-term use of Furosemide.

 

 Ringing in your ears
 Severe pain in the upper stomach
 Rapid weight gain
 Unusual bleeding
 Low potassium effects – muscle weakness, confusion, leg discomfort
 Low calcium – overactive reflexes and contraction

 

Immediately contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the above symptoms since they can worsen your current health state.

 

Precautions

 

 The easiest way to reduce the occurrence of these drugs is to stay aware and informed about the possible consequences. Listed below are some precautionary methods that you need to follow without fail.

 

 Do not drive or be engaged in any activity that requires focus and concentration since consuming this medication can make you feel dizzy

 

 Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated at all times

 

 Do not change the dosage without consulting your physician

 

 If you miss your dose, do not double it in the next turn. Skip it and stick to your regular schedule

 

 When taking the medication in liquid form, use a dose-measuring spoon to measure the dosage accurately

 

 Avoid consuming the medication during periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding

 

 Check whether you are allergic to any of the ingredients use to create Furosemide

 

 Go for regular blood, urine and blood-pressure tests to stay informed about the effects of medication and the progress of the treatment

 

Self-care

 

Make sure to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history in detail. Some of the current medications you are taking for other illnesses might react negatively or reduce the effectiveness of the medication. For example, antibiotics such as Ceftin and Keflex can interfere with the drug’s productivity.

 

Since this medication results in increased urination, your body will become easily dehydrated. So, make sure to drink tons of water and other fluids to stay hydrated – especially when you are exercising outdoors.