Lasix

Generic Name: Frusemide

US Brand Name: Lasix

Uses

Frusemide 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.

Active Ingredients: frusemide (also known as furosemide)

Inactive Ingredients: lactose monohydrate NF, magnesium stearate NF, starch NF, talc USP, and colloidal silicon dioxide NF. Chemically, it is 4-chloro-N-furfuryl-5-sulfamoylanthranilic acid.

Dosage and Forms

Frusemide is an oral tablet (round or ellipsoidal). Take each dose with a full glass of water. To reduce nighttime urination, take Frusemide early in the day unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. The daily dosage varies depending on the disease being treated and response to therapy. If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include weakness, muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, confusion, irregular pulse, nausea, and vomiting.

Contraindications and Precautions

Do not use Frusemide if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Frusemide
• you are unable to urinate
• you are taking ethacrynic acid

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, Frusemide can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

If you develop any of these signs you should stop Frusemide and talk to your doctor immediately: Anemia, blood disorders, blurred vision, constipation, cramping, diarrhea, dizziness, dizziness upon standing, fever, headache, hearing loss, high blood sugar, hives, itching, loss of appetite, low potassium (leading to symptoms like dry mouth, excessive thirst, weak or irregular heartbeat, muscle pain or cramps), muscle spasms, nausea, rash, reddish or purplish spots on the skin, restlessness, ringing in the ears, sensitivity to light, skin eruptions, skin inflammation and flaking, stomach or mouth irritation, tingling or pins and needles, vertigo, vision changes, vomiting, weakness, yellow eyes and skin.

Interactions

If Frusemide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to consult with your doctor before taking Frusemide with any of the following: Aminoglycoside antibiotics such as Garamycin, Aspirin and other salicylates, Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin), Indomethacin (Indocin), Lithium (Lithonate), Norepinephrine (Levophed), Other high blood pressure medications such as Hytrin and Cardura, Sucralfate (Carafate).