The generic name of the medications that we are going to speak about is Furosemide, which can also be found under brand name Lasix.
Lasix is indicated to treat high blood pressure and other health conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver and kidney disorders that require the elimination of the excess amount of water from the body.
In treating high blood pressure Lasix is effective used along with other medicines for high blood pressure. Being a diuretic Lasix helps to the body to produce and eliminate more amount of urine, which in turn enables to reduce blood pressure.
Lasix can also be used along with other medications in patients who suffer from fluid accumulation in the lungs.
Lasix is a fast-acting medication that begins its action generally within 1 hour. But, in spite its fast acting effects, it usually takes a couple of weeks to feel the full benefits from this medication as blood pressure decreases gradually. One should continue using this medication even if you begin to feel well. One should understand that Lasix is not a cure of high blood pressure, but it is indicated to manage the problem of high blood pressure and helps to keep it under the control.
It’s important to take Lasix according to the doctor’s prescription. Take the medication regular and try not to miss the dose. In case you forget to take the dose, take it as soon as you remember, but never take to dose at once to avoid the overdose.
Lasix should be kept in the original container tightly closed away from the light at room temperature.
Lasix medication can provoke a number of side reactions such as anemia, blood disorders, hazy vision, stomach disorders, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fever, headache, hearing and vision impairments, high blood sugar, hives, rash, itching, appetite disorders, low potassium, muscle spasms, sensitivity to light, skin inflammation, stomach or mouth irritation, vertigo, weakness, yellowing of eyes and skin. It doesn’t mean that these side effects will happen to all patients. Generally, this medication is well-tolerated. If any of the adverse effects are experienced, notify the medical professional.
For some patients Lasix is not recommended. Individuals, who are sensitive or allergic to Lasix or other diuretics or have problems with urination, should not use Lasix.
Lasix can reduce the amount of potassium in your body which is accompanied with the following symptoms: muscle weakness and heartbeat irregularities. In this situation your medical provider might recommend you to take a potassium supplement or potassium-rich food.
Notify your health provider about the health conditions you have including kidney disorder, liver disorder, diabetes, gout, and others, because Lasix should be taken with caution.
If you suffer from high blood pressure you should avoid nonprescription medications that might increase blood pressure.
Interactions of Lasix with food and mother medications
Taking Lasix with other medications can affect the action of the medications: the effectiveness might be decreased, increased or altered.
There is no full information about the effects of Lasix in pregnant women. Let your medical provider know if you are pregnant so that he can decide if it is safe for you to use this medication. Lasix is secreted in breast milk and could do harm to a nursing infant, so it is recommended to be used in nursing mothers only if the risks are lower than the benefits from the medication.
The dose of Lasix is determined by the medical provider and it depends on the condition and the age of the patient. For fluid retention the initial dose of Lasix is 20 to 80 milligrams. The dose might be increased. The maximum dose is 600 milligrams per day. The initial dose for high blood pressure for high blood treatment is 80 milligrams daily. For children the usual starting dose is 2 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight. The dose might be increased by 1 to 2 mg per 2.2 pounds. The maximum dose should not exceed 6 mg per 2.2 pounds.
Avoid the overdose of Lasix medication as it can lead to very serious consequences to health such as severe dehydration. Among other symptoms of overdose are dryness in mouth, extreme thirst, low blood pressure, pain in muscle or muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, heartbeat irregularities, and weakness. If the overdose occurs, seek medical help without a delay.