Lasix (Furosemide) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 3, 2012

Lasix

Edema »

What is edema?

Edema is observable swelling from fluid accumulation in body tissues. Edema most commonly occurs in the feet and legs, where it is referred to as peripheral edema. The swelling is the result of the accumulation of excess fluid under the skin in the spaces within the tissues. All tissues of the body are made up of cells and connective tissues that hold the cells together. This connective tissue around the cells and blood vessels is known as the interstitium. Most of the body's fluids that are found outside of the cells are normally stored in two spaces; the blood vessels (as the "liquid" or serum portion of your blood) and the interstitial spaces (not within the cells). In various diseases, excess fluid can accumulate in either one or both of these compartments.

The body's organs have interstitial spaces where fluid can accumulate. An accumulation of fluid in the interstitial air spaces (alveoli) in the lungs occurs in a disorder called...

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LASIX®
(furosemide) Tablets 20, 40, and 80 mg

WARNING

Lasix (furosemide) is a potent diuretic which, if given in excessive amounts, can lead to a profound diuresis with water and electrolyte depletion. Therefore, careful medical supervision is required and dose and dose schedule must be adjusted to the individual patient's needs (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Lasix (furosemide) is a diuretic which is an anthranilic acid derivative. Lasix tablets for oral administration contain furosemide as the active ingredient and the following inactive ingredients: lactose monohydrate NF, magnesium stearate NF, starch NF, talc USP, and colloidal silicon dioxide NF. Chemically, it is 4chloro-N-furfuryl-5-sulfamoylanthranilic acid. Lasix (furosemide) is available as white tablets for oral administration in dosage strengths of 20, 40 and 80 mg. Furosemide is a white to off-white odorless crystalline powder. It is practically insoluble in water, sparingly soluble in alcohol, freely soluble in dilute alkali solutions and insoluble in dilute acids.

The CAS Registry Number is 54-31-9.

The structural formula is as follows:

LASIX®
(furosemide) Structural Formula Illustration

What are the possible side effects of furosemide

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using furosemide and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

dry mouth, thirst, nausea, vomiting;
feeling weak, drowsy, restless, or light-headed;
fast or uneven heartbeat;
muscle pain or weakness;
urinating less than usual or not at all;
easy bruising or bleeding, unusual...

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What are the precautions when taking furosemide (Lasix)?

Before taking furosemide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, inability to make urine, gout, lupus.

If you have diabetes, furosemide may affect your blood sugar level. Check your blood sugar level regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication or diet.

Furosemide may reduce the potassium level in your blood. Your doctor may instruct you to add potassium-rich foods to...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 11/15/2010
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.