Furosemide, commonly known by its brand name Lasix, is a potent loop diuretic used to manage conditions characterized by excess fluid accumulation in the body (edema) and high blood pressure (hypertension). It works by increasing the excretion of water and salts (sodium, potassium, chloride) from the kidneys, leading to a reduction in fluid volume. It is available in various forms, including oral tablets and oral solutions, and is primarily prescribed for conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, and high blood pressure. Furosemide is generally taken once or twice daily, typically in the morning, to avoid frequent urination during the night.
Furosemide was first approved by the FDA in 1966. Its classification as a loop diuretic highlights its action on the 'loop of Henle' in the kidneys, which is a key part of the nephron responsible for regulating water and salt reabsorption. Its rapid onset and short duration of action make it effective for acute fluid management. (FDA label, DrugBank)
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Known interactions
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Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["FDA label: Furosemide tablets.", "MedlinePlus: Furosemide.", "PubChem: Furosemide.", "DrugBank: Furosemide.", "Cochrane Library: Various reviews on diuretics for edema and hypertension. (General reference to the body of evidence)", "Mayo Clinic: Furosemide (Oral Route) Side Effects.", "EMA SmPC: Furosemide. (General reference to European regulatory documentation)"]
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Related compounds
Others in the medication category or studied for the same goals.