How to use
Lasix (Furosemide) should be taken orally, usually once or twice a day, with or without food. This medication may make you urinate at night, so it is recommended to take these pills at least 4 hours before bedtime. Follow the instructions of your doctor exactly, even if they differ from the usually recommended dosage.

Take Lasix (Furosemide) regularly and at approximately the same times each day to enjoy its maximum benefits. This ensures there is always the same level of medication in the bloodstream.

Overdose

Symptoms of a Lasix (Furosemide) overdose may include:

• Fainting
• A severe decrease in amount of urine
• Severe weakness

If you think you have taken too much of this medication, you should contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services immediately.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dosage of Lasix (Furosemide), take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Notes

Your doctor may recommend regular medical tests to monitor your progress and check for side effects. Make sure you do not miss any of these appointments. Have your doctor check your blood pressure regularly.

Talk to your doctor about possible lifestyle changes that may help Lasix (Furosemide) work better, such as regular exercise and changes in your diet.

Do not share this medication with others, as they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by Lasix (Furosemide).

Storage

Store Lasix (Furosemide) at room temperature, between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) and away from light and moisture. When used, dispose of this medication in compliance with environmental laws. KEEP THIS AND ALL OTHER MEDICATIONS OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Important Note

The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.

* Illustrations are for graphic purposes only and the ordered medication may differ in appearance.

Precautions

Before taking Lasix (Furosemide), you should discuss your medical history with your doctor. Especially mention:

• Any allergies
• Severe kidney diseases (inability to make urine or anuria)
• Liver diseases
• Gout
• Lupus

If you currently suffer or ever have suffered from any of the above conditions, you may not be able to take Lasix (Furosemide) or you may need a dosage adjustment.

If you are diabetic, this medication may interfere with your blood sugar levels. Check your glucose levels regularly and talk about them with your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst or urination. Your diet or medication may need to be adjusted.

Lasix (Furosemide) may lower the potassium levels in your blood. Discuss the use of potassium supplements with your doctor.

Lasix (Furosemide) may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure or artificial sunlight, such as tanning booths and sunlamps. If you do have to go outside in the sun, make sure you are wearing protective clothing or an adequate sunscreen.

Lasix (Furosemide) may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking this medication, until you are sure you can perform these activities safely. Get up slowly from a seating or lying position to avoid going dizzy.

Elderly people may be more sensitive to certain side effects, such as dizziness, of Lasix (Furosemide). Caution is advised when this medication is used by anyone in that age group.

Lasix (Furosemide) is classified as Pregnancy Category C by the FDA, which means it could potentially cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication when pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment. Discuss the options with your doctor.

Lasix (Furosemide) passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take this medication while breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions
Before taking Lasix (Furosemide), inform your doctor of all other medication you use, including:

• Cisapride
• Ethacrynic acid
• Aliskiren
• Aminoglycoside antibiotics such as gentamicin, tobramycin
• Amphotericin B
• Cholestyramine
• Cisplatin
• Colestipol
• Corticosteroids (e.g. prednisone)
• Digoxin
• Lithium
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, indomethacin)
• Large doses of aspirin and aspirin-like drugs (salicylates)
• Sucralfate
• Any medication that could increase blood pressure or cause swelling (edema)

This is only a partial list and other medication may interact with Lasix (Furosemide). Notify your doctor of all other prescription and non-prescription medication you are using, including herbal pills, dietary supplements, vitamins, minerals and medication prescribed by other doctors. Do not start or stop using any medication without discussing this with your doctor first.

The following common side effects of Lasix (Furosemide) may occur:

• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach upset
• Diarrhea
• Constipation 

The above side effects should only occur while your body adjusts to the medication. Tell your doctor as soon as possible if any of these effects persist or worsen.

Notify your doctor straightaway if you experience any of these unlikely but serious side effects:

• Numbness or tingling of the arms or legs
• Ringing in the ears
• Hearing loss

Notify your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur:

• Signs of infection (e.g. fever, persistent sore throat)
• Easy bleeding or bruising
• Stomach or abdominal pain
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)

Lasix (Furosemide) may cause excessive loss of water and minerals. Tell your doctor straightaway if you have any of the following symptoms of dehydration or mineral loss:

• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Confusion
• Severe dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Unusual dry mouth or thirst
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Unusual decrease in the amount of urine
• Fainting
• Seizures

In rare cases, you may experience a severe allergic reaction to Lasix (Furosemide). Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

This is only a partial list and other side effects may occur. Notify your doctor straightaway if you experience any side effects other than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.