Furosemide

What Is Furosemide Used For

Furosemide is a diuretic which is used to increase the amount of urine passed thereby causing the body to rid excess water and salt. Furosemide can help with treatment of high blood pressure although is not a cure. Furosemide has been known to reduce swelling and water retention cause by various conditions such as liver, heart or kidney disease.

If you experience or are concerned or require more information about any of the above conditions, please contact your healthcare prescriber about Furosemide.

How To Use Furosemide

Remember to take your medication at regular intervals between every dose so that your drug will work efficiently. It is also important to follow the instructions given and read the patient information leaflet provided as these will differ between different medication.

Furosemide tablets should be taken orally with a glass of water. To prevent upset stomach you may take with food or milk. Remember, when taking Furosemide or any prescription drug to always follow the label closely. Keep in mind that you will have to urinate more frequently after taking Furosemide and so you should not take it at bedtime or times during which that will pose a problem. Be sure to space your doses evenly and do not take more than directed.

Furosemide should only be taken as instructed by your healthcare prescriber. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your healthcare prescriber first or unless instructed to do so. If the medication is for your child, remember that the dosage instructions will differ, so please check prior to starting the medication.

Conflicting Medications With Furosemide

Always consult the doctor who prescribed Furosemide to you; as this is only a partial interacting medicines list:
  • Cholestyramine
  • Clofibrate
  • Phenytoin
  • Medicines for high blood pressure
  • Lithium
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Dofetilide
  • Nitroglycerin
  • Medicines that relax muscles for surgery
  • Colestipol
  • Water pills
  • Hormones such as cortisone, fludrocortisone or hydrocortisone
  • Heart medicines such as digoxin
  • Alcohol
  • Certain antibiotics given by injection
  • Cisplatin
It is very important to inform your healthcare prescriber of your medical history and the drugs that you are taking. For example, drugs that you are currently taking along with Furosemide may interact with each other. Inform your healthcare prescriber if you fall into any one of the following categories below:
  • Are a smoker
  • Use any other legal or illegal drugs or substances
  • Consume alcohol or caffeine on a regular basis

All of the categories listed above may affect the outcome of the medicine Furosemide and as a result give rise to unwanted side-effects.

Read more information on Furosemide using the links under About Furosemide