What is Lasix?

Lasix is a loop diuretic, i.e., a water pill. It prevents the body from absorbing too much salt, and allows the salt to instead be passed in urine. Lasix is helpful in treating fluid retention in those with congestive heart failure, liver disease, or a kidney disorder such as nephrotic syndrome. It is also used to treat high blood pressure. It could be useful in eating conditions other than listed in this medication guide.

To ensure Lasix is not harmful for you, your blood will be tested at regular intervals. Kidney or liver function may also be tested. Do not skip any scheduled visits to your doctor. The medication will make you urinate more often and you could get dehydrated easily. Follow instructions regarding use of potassium supplements or including adequate salt and potassium in your diet. If treatment is on for high blood pressure, use Lasix even if you feel fine. Lasix is to be stored at room temperature away from heat, light and moisture.

How does Lasix work?

Lasix is classified as diuretics. Diuretics are needed for treatment of edema (fluid retention) that occurs with congestive heart failure and disorders of the liver, kidney, and lung. It is even used to control high blood pressure. Lasix works by increasing the amount of urine formed and excreted and by taking away excessive water.

How to Take Lasix?

• Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you.
• Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or for longer than recommended.
• Your doctor can seldom change your dose to ensure you get the best results from Lasix.
• Lasix will make you urinate more often and you may get dehydrated easily. Use potassium supplements and/or enough salt and potassium in your diet.
• Lasix is sometimes used only once, so you may not be on a dosing schedule.
• If you are on a regular dose, take missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip missed dose and wait until your next regular scheduled dose.
• Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Side effects of Lasix

Get immediate medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:

• hives
• difficulty breathing
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat

Serious side effects:

• dry mouth
• thirst
• nausea
• vomiting
• feeling weak, drowsy, restless, or light-headed
• fast or uneven heartbeat
• muscle pain or weakness
• urinating less than usual or not at all
• easy bruising or bleeding
• unusual weakness
• a red, blistering, peeling skin rash
• hearing loss
• stomach pain
• low fever
• loss of appetite
• dark urine
• clay-colored stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Less serious side effects:

• diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain
• headache
• numbness, burning, pain, or tingly feeling
• dizziness
• blurred vision

Any other developments need to be reported to the doctor with immediate effect.

What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Lasix?

Tell your doctor if you have:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• gout
• lupus
• diabetes
• Or an allergy to sulfa drugs

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Lasix, or will need dosage modification or special tests during treatment. Lasix falls in the FDA pregnancy category C and as such it can be damaging to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Lasix may pass into breast milk and harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

• lithium
• digoxin (Lanoxin)
• steroids (prednisone and others)
• ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)
• diet pills or cold medicine
• blood pressure medications
• amikacin (Amikin), gentamicin (Garamycin), netilmicin (Netromycin), streptomycin, tobramycin (Nebcin, Tobi)
• salicylates such as aspirin, Disalcid, Doan's Pills, Dolobid, Salflex, Tricosal, and others
• indomethacin

Other drugs not listed above may also affect Lasix. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. Mention use of any vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors.

What should I avoid while taking Lasix?

Avoid becoming dehydrated and be attentive regarding the type and amount of liquids you need to drink when taking Lasix.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Medication may make your skin more receptive to sunlight and cause sunburn. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing when out in the sun.