Furosemide

What is Furosemide?

Furosemide is a potent diuretic used to quickly remove excess fluid in conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, or lung congestion.

How it works

It blocks the sodium-potassium-chloride transporter in the loop of Henle, causing strong diuresis. This reduces fluid in the bloodstream and tissues, easing swelling and breathing difficulty.

Common uses

• Rapid relief of shortness of breath from fluid overload
• Ongoing control of edema in heart, liver, or kidney disease
• Adjunct in treating high blood pressure resistant to other agents

Monitoring & Safety

• Labs: Regularly check potassium, sodium, magnesium, bun, and creatinine to avoid dehydration or kidney injury.
• Watch for dizziness, hearing changes at high IV doses, or muscle cramps.

Dosing (简要)

• Oral doses often 20-80 mg; may be split twice daily for steady effect.
• Take early in day; adjust timing to match daily fluid goals set by your clinician.

Drug interactions

• Other diuretics can cause profound fluid and electrolyte loss.
• NSAIDs may blunt effect and stress kidneys.
• Digitalis toxicity risk rises with low potassium or magnesium.

Patient tips

• Track daily weight; report gains over 2-3 pounds in 24 hours.
• Keep a log of urine output if your care team requests it.
• Replace potassium-rich foods as advised if labs trend low.

When to contact your doctor

• Very low urine output despite dosing.
• Severe dizziness, fainting, or confusion.
• Ringing in ears or hearing changes after high doses.

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Medical Disclaimer: 本内容仅供教育用途，不能替代专业医疗建议。