Furosemide belongs to a group of medicine called diuretics that treat high blood pressure and reduce swelling related to kidney, heart, or liver illness. This medicine also aids in removing salt and fluid from an individual’s blood through the urine. Other than treating high blood pressure and swelling in the kidney, heart, and liver, the medicine can also be used for other purposes.
The familiar brand’s name(s) are;
- Delone
- Active-medicated specimen kit
- Diuscreen
- Specimen collection kit
- Lasix
- Rx specimen collection kit
- URINX medicated specimen collection
How to use Furosemide?
It is an oral medicine advised to take as prescribed by the healthcare advisor. This medicine can be consumed without or with food. Still, if an individual encounters a problem in their stomach after finishing furosemide without food, they should take it after completing their meal or as directed. The overdose of this medicine can lead to severe reactions, and one must immediately contact the emergency room or the poison control center.
How long does Furosemide work?
It works one hour after consumption, and the effect of furosemide lasts for about six hours. However, it may take a few weeks to get full benefits. If an individual consumes for high blood pressure but has no symptoms, the individual may assume that the medicine is not working effectively. However, it is essential to carry on with the consumption of the drug as prescribed by the consultant.
What if an individual misses a dose of Furosemide?
Suppose an individual misses a dose of furosemide medicine. In that case, it is advised to consume it as soon as possible, but if the time of the second dose reaches, then consume only one dose, don’t consume extra quantities.
Who can take Furosemide?
Both adults and children can consume furosemide. However, it would not be suitable for individuals with the following health conditions:
- If an individual has ever experienced an allergic reaction due to consuming furosemide or any other medicine.
- Signs of dehydration and dark pee
- Liver illness
- Difficulty while urinating
- Diabetes
- Gout
- Hypotension
- Addison’s illness: A A rare illness of the adrenal gland.
It is suggested to inform the healthcare advisor about the consumption of furosemide medicine if they are going to have the following medical exams:
- General anesthetic or a major operation that would require an individual to be put to sleep.
- A glucose test
- Imaging tests such as a scan or X-ray require the involvement of the dye-containing iodine injected into an individual’s blood.
The dosage and the strength of the Medicine
The medicine furosemide in the form of the tablet comes in 20, 40, and 500 mg strengths. The liquid form of furosemide comes in 20, 40, or 50mg. The usual dose of furosemide to treat adults is:
- 40 to 80mg per day to treat hypertension.
- 20 to 120mg per day to treat oedema or heart failure.
The doses for individuals over 65 years are usually lower as they may be more prone to side effects. Moreover, the consultant would consider the child’s weight or age to prescribe the correct dose for children.
When is it vital to consume Furosemide?
The consumption should be followed as prescribed by the healthcare advisor. However, the individual usually takes furosemide once in the morning or twice daily. Moreover, it can be consumed occasionally at different times in the day.
What if an individual gets ill while consuming it?
It is advised to contact the healthcare advisor if an individual experiences the following conditions:
- High temperature
- Severe diarrhea or is being vomited
- Shaking and sweating.
After examining the individual’s condition, the healthcare provider may advise to stop consuming furosemide for at least 1 to 2 days until the individual’s health improves.
What if an individual consumes too much Furosemide?
An excessive amount of furosemide can cause headaches, dizziness, abnormal heartbeat, and even cause an individual to faint. Furthermore, the individual can also feel the need to urinate very often, which causes dehydration.
