Furosemide is a potent diuretic that given in excessive amounts may induce a profound diuresis with water and electrolyte depletion. Careful medical supervision is required; dosage selection and titration should be adjusted to the individual patient’s needs. (See Dosage and Administration.)
FUROSEMIDE (fyoor OH se mide) is a diuretic. It helps you make more urine and to lose salt and excess water from your body. This medicine can also be used to treat high blood pressure.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You may take this medicine with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Remember that you will need to pass more urine after taking this medicine. Do not take this medicine at a time of day that will cause you problems. Do not take at bedtime.
Use a specially marked dropper or spoon to measure your medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as newborns, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure regularly. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your blood pressure should be, and when you should contact him or her. If you are a diabetic, check your blood sugar as directed.
You may need to be on a special diet while taking this medicine. Check with your doctor. Also, ask how many glasses of fluid you need to drink a day. You must not get dehydrated.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine 90 days after first opening the bottle.
NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children,
never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.