furosemide webmd

Furosemide is a diuretic (also called a water pill) that helps your body get rid of excess salt and water by increasing urine production. It is commonly used to treat edema (swelling caused by fluid buildup) in conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease, and is also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. Furosemide can be taken as an oral tablet, oral solution, or injectable solution given by a healthcare professional. Furosemide works by making the kidneys remove more sodium and water from the blood, which reduces fluid buildup and lowers blood pressure. Common side effects may include increased urination, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, and itching or rash. There is a serious risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances if too much furosemide is taken. It can also cause low potassium levels, low blood pressure, and in high doses, low thyroid levels. For best results, it should be taken exactly as prescribed, with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider. Missing doses or taking too much can reduce its effectiveness or cause dangerous side effects. Monitoring blood pressure and symptoms related to edema are ways to tell if the drug is working well. Furosemide is available under brand names like Lasix and Furocot and comes in various dosage forms and strengths for different treatment needs.