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LASIX (Furosemide)
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Generic
Name: Furosemide
Classification: Diuretics (Water Pill)
Other Names: Furosemide
Used to treat:
Edema (fluid retention) due to congestive heart failure,
hypertension, kidney or liver disease Hypertension (High
blood pressure)
(These are common indications for this medication. There
may be additional conditions not listed here. Check
with your doctor if you have questions about your specific
condition). |
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General
Directions for Taking Medication:
Take only as directed. Usually taken in the morning
to prevent increased urination at night.
If you miss a dose, take the medicine as soon as you
remember. If it is time for your next dose, take only
1 dose. DO NOT double up the doses.
Take medication with food or milk to prevent upset stomach.
You may crush tablets and mix with food if you have
difficulty swallowing. If you are taking this medication
to control your blood pressure, continue taking medication
even if you feel better. DO NOT stop taking medicine
unless you talk to your doctor first.
Learn how to monitor your blood pressure and pulse at
home. Keep a diary for your doctor. If dizzy due to
hypotension (low blood pressure), change positions slowly.
Weigh your self once daily. Keep a diary for your doctor.
Talk to your doctor about exercise, tips to stop smoking,
and less salt in your diet. Since this medication may
lower potassium levels in your bloodstream, your doctor
may prescribe oral supplements.
Use a sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater), wear protective
clothing, and avoid excessive sunlight exposure. This
medication increases your sensitivity to the sun's rays.
Tell all healthcare providers that you are taking this
medication prior to any procedure.
Avoid hot, humid environments; limit alcohol; and do
not stand for prolong periods of time. Talk to your
doctor about the need to wear a medical alert pendant
or bracelet. There are many products that provide information
to health care providers about your medicines and specific
condition in case of an emergency.
Follow up with your doctor regularly to monitor the
effectiveness of this medication with routine blood
tests, blood pressure screenings, and a physical exam.
Contraindications:
Allergies - Hypersensitivity to this medication, its
components, or Thiazide and Sulfa drugs Patients with
untreated electrolyte disorders, severe liver or kidney
disease, a coma related to liver disease, or problems
with urination Patients with alcohol intolerance - Certain
medicines may contain alcohol.
Use with caution in:
Patients with liver or kidney disease, electrolyte disorders,
or diabetes Elderly patients
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding - May not be safe for your
baby. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Common Side Effects:
May occur during the first few days after beginning
therapy, but usually resolve:
Dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, photosensitivity,
increased urination, blurred vision, loss of appetite,
skin itching, upset stomach symptoms, or muscle weakness
Serious Side Effects:
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any
of the following:
Dry mouth, excessive thirst, unusual bleeding or bruising,
rash, jaundice (yellow eyes or skin), severe nausea
or vomiting, constipation, tinnitus (ringing in ears)
or hearing loss Potassium deficiency symptoms - Fatigue,
muscle cramps; pain; numbness or tingling of arms and
legs; and nausea or vomiting
Allergic reaction symptoms such as a red skin rash;
itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat;
wheezing; chest pain; and difficulty breathing
Interactions:
Drug - There are many medications, both over-the-counter
and prescription, which will alter the action of this
medication. Some include blood pressure medicines, other
diuretics, heart medications, antibiotics, steroids,
Lithium, aspirin, diabetic medications, non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen or naproxen), ulcer
medications, and blood thinners.
It is extremely important that you consult with your
doctor about dosing schedules if you take a variety
of medications along with this medication. DO NOT take
any new medication without talking with your doctor
first.
Warnings:
Overdose - Can lead to severe dehydration, blood volume
reduction, low blood pressure, and an electrolyte imbalance.
DO NOT change brands of this medication. Active ingredients
may differ slightly.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. May increase dizziness and
dehydration side effects.
Keep this medication and all others out of reach of
children and pets.
General Dosage Information:
Dosing is individually based. Talk to your doctor about
your specific dosing schedule:
Storage:
Keep at room temperature.
Protect from sunlight and moisture. |
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