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LASIX
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Lasix Generic Name: Furosemide
Lasix Classification: Diuretics (Water Pill)
Other Names: Furosemide
Lasix is 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 Lasix. There may be additional conditions not listed here. Check with your doctor if you have questions about your specific condition).
General Directions for Taking Lasix:
Take Lasix only as directed. Lasix is usually taken in the morning to prevent increased urination at night.
If you miss a Lasix dose, take the Lasix as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next
dose of Lasix, take only 1 Lasix dose. DO NOT double up the
doses of Lasix.
Take Lasix with food or milk to prevent upset stomach.
You may crush Lasix tablets and mix with food if you have difficulty swallowing.
If you are taking Lasix to control your blood pressure, continue taking
Lasix even if you feel better. DO NOT stop taking
Lasix 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 Lasix 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.
Lasix increases your sensitivity to the sun's rays.
Tell all healthcare providers that you are taking
Lasix 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
Lasix with routine blood tests, blood pressure screenings, and a physical exam.
Lasix Contraindications:
Allergies - Hypersensitivity to Lasix, Lasix 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 Lasix with caution in:
Patients with liver or kidney disease, electrolyte disorders, or diabetes
Elderly patients
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding - Lasix may not be safe for your baby. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Common Lasix 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 Lasix 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
Lasix 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
Lasix dosing schedules if you take a variety of medications along with
Lasix. DO NOT take any new medication without talking with your doctor first.
Lasix Warnings:
Lasix Overdose - Can lead to severe dehydration, blood volume reduction, low blood pressure, and an electrolyte imbalance.
DO NOT change brands of Lasix. Lasix active ingredients may differ slightly.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. May increase dizziness and dehydration side effects.
Keep Lasix and all other medications out of reach of children and pets.
General Lasix Dosage Information:
Lasix dosing is individually based. Talk to your doctor about your specific
Lasix dosing schedule:
Lasix Storage:
Keep Lasix at room temperature.
Protect Lasix from sunlight and moisture. |
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