Lasix (Furosemide)

Do's

• Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before starting to take Lasix and each time you get a refill. If there are any questions, ask your healthcare provider for guidance.
• Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once or twice daily. It is advisable to avoid taking this medication within 4 hours of bedtime to prevent having to get up to urinate.
• The dosage of this medication is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. For children, the dose is also based on weight. Older adults usually start with a lower dose to decrease the risk of side effects. Do not increase the dose or take it more often than directed.
• Taking this medication regularly is essential in order to get the most benefit from it. To help remember, take it at the same time(s) of the day as directed. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well, as most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
• Sucralfate, cholestyramine, and colestipol can decrease the absorption of furosemide. If you are taking any of these drugs, it is advised to separate the timing of each dose from Lasix by at least 2 hours.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens, such as if your blood pressure readings remain high or increase.

Common Side Effects: 

• Ringing in the ears
• Hearing loss
• Muscle spasms or contractions
• Pale skin
• Easy bruising
• Unusual bleeding
• High blood sugar
• Kidney problems
• Signs of liver or pancreas problems
• Signs of an electrolyte imbalance

Serious Side Effects:

• Restlessness
• Psychiatric disorder
• Apathy
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• High temperature
• Sore throat
• Mouth ulcers
• Severe stomach pain
• Blood in urine
• Severe pain in the side

The side effects listed above are not exhaustive, and there may be other side effects associated with the use of Lasix. If you experience any concerning symptoms or side effects while taking Lasix, seek medical attention and consult your healthcare provider.

Dose selection and adjustment for elderly patients should be cautious, typically starting at the low end of the dosing range. Elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.

Lasix can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which may lead to symptoms such as dry mouth/thirst, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion. Avoid becoming dehydrated while taking Lasix.

High doses of furosemide may cause irreversible hearing loss. Reports indicate that Lasix ototoxicity is associated with factors such as rapid injection, severe renal impairment, use of higher than recommended doses, hypoproteinemia, or concomitant therapy with certain medications.

Coadministration of indomethacin may reduce the natriuretic and antihypertensive effects of Lasix in some patients by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. Patients receiving both indomethacin and Lasix should be observed closely to determine if the desired diuretic and/or antihypertensive effect of Lasix is achieved.

Lasix should be started cautiously to treat cirrhosis or ascites (fluid retention in the abdominal cavity). In general, Lasix should be started in the hospital for these individuals, so that they can be monitored closely.

Consult a healthcare professional before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. Additionally, keep all your appointments with your healthcare provider and the laboratory, and have blood pressure checked regularly.