About furosemide
Loop diuretic
Used for
- Fluid build-up due to heart, liver, or kidney conditions
- High blood pressure
Usual adult dose
For fluid retention: usually 20–80 mg once; doses may be adjusted. For high blood pressure: commonly 40 mg twice daily.
Usual dose in children
For fluid retention: commonly 1–2 mg/kg per dose; adjusted by response. Not usually used for childhood high blood pressure.
Common side effects
- Frequent urination
- Dizziness or low blood pressure
- Dehydration and electrolyte changes
- Increased blood sugar or uric acid
Important warnings
- Can cause severe dehydration or low potassium, sodium, or magnesium.
- Kidney function and electrolytes may need monitoring.
- Rarely causes hearing damage, especially with high doses or certain medicines.
- Use cautiously with gout, diabetes, or difficulty urinating.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; it may affect the mother’s fluid and electrolyte balance and fetal growth.
Breastfeeding
May reduce milk supply, particularly at higher doses; discuss alternatives with a clinician.
Interactions
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may reduce its effect and harm kidney function.
- Digoxin: low potassium can increase risk of abnormal heartbeat.
- Lithium: furosemide may raise lithium levels.
- Other blood-pressure medicines may increase dizziness or low blood pressure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.