Furosemide
Information about Furosemide
Furosemide uses
Furosemide is used in the treatment of Hypertension (high blood pressure) and Edema. It treats oedema (fluid overload) associated with heart, liver, kidney or lung disease.
How furosemide works
Furosemide is a diuretic. It removes extra water and certain electrolytes from the body by increasing the amount of urine produced.
Common side effects of furosemide
Dehydration, Ringing in ear, Electrolyte imbalance, Increased creatinine level in blood, Increased glucose level in blood, Hemoconcentration, Increased uric acid level in blood, Nausea, Hearing disorder, Vasculitis, Anaphylactic reaction, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Bone marrow depression
Available Medicine for Furosemide
Expert advice for Furosemide
- Take it in the morning with breakfast to avoid getting up at night to urinate.
- Monitor your blood pressure after starting Furosemide, and notify your doctor if it does not lower down.
- Consult your doctor if you experience dizziness, tiredness, or muscle weakness that does not go away.
- Take potassium supplements or potassium-rich diet (banana, spinach, coconut water, etc.) as Furosemide can decrease your potassium levels and lead to dehydration.
- You may be asked to get regular blood tests done to monitor your kidney function.
Frequently asked questions for Furosemide
Furosemide
Q. How is Furosemide different from Torasemide?
Both Furosemide and Torasemide are loop diuretics. They are used to treat high blood pressure and edema caused by an underlying liver, kidney or lung diseases. Unlike Torasemide, Furosemide is also used in the treatment of hypercalcemia (high calcium levels in the blood). Torasemide has a longer duration of action and is safer to use in patients with renal failure, as compared to Furosemide.
Q. Should you drink a lot of water when taking Furosemide?
It is advised to take an adequate amount of water if you are taking Furosemide. This is because Furosemide works by eliminating the extra fluid and electrolytes from your body by increasing the urine production. This elimination of fluids may increase the chances of dehydration if you sweat a lot, exercise vigorously or if the climate is hot. However, if you have kidney or heart problems, you must consult your doctor who will suggest the amount of water that you should be taking. Consult your doctor for any further query or concern.
Q. Can Furosemide cause weight gain?
No, Furosemide does not cause weight gain. On the contrary, you may lose weight as it makes your body get rid of the excess of fluids from your body.