NEWLY DISCOVERED USES (OFF-LABEL)
Acute asthma, allergen-induced asthma, ascites in cirrhosis, aspirin-sensitive asthma, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (in infants), chronic asthma, membranous nephropathy, nocturia, prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm, steroid-dependent asthma
ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Management of edema (swelling from water retention) associated with congestive heart failure and liver or kidney disease, treatment of high blood pressure
BRAND NAME Lasix
DRUG CLASS
Blood pressure medication (loop diuretic)
DESCRIPTION
This drug decreases reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the kidneys, causing an increased clearance of water and electrolytes (sodium chloride, magnesium, and calcium) from the body.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Lowered blood pressure upon standing (orthostatic hypotension), dehydration, numbness, dizziness, lightheadedness, various skin rashes, skin reactions related to sun exposure (photosensitivity), increased levels of glucose
or uric acid, decreased levels of potassium or chloride, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, gastric irritation, urinary bladder spasm, weakness, hearing impairment, ringing in the ears, decrease in kidney function.
CAUTIONS
Do not use if you are allergic to certain types of sulfa drugs.
The risk of kidney or ear side effects are increased if used with other drugs that have similar side effects.
Watch for warning signs of dehydration: dryness of mouth, thirst, anorexia, weakness, muscle cramps or pain, increased heart rate, irregular heart rhythm, vomiting.
Use may be result in imbalance in electrolytes (potassium, sodium, magnesium).
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Lithium, propranolol, cisplatin, clofibrate, probenecid
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category C. Excreted in breast milk. No reports of adverse effects. Use with caution.
SPECIAL INFORMATION
May be taken with food or milk. Rise slowly from sitting or lying position to avoid dizziness. Avoid long periods of exercise. This drug will increase urination; take early in day to prevent frequent need to urinate during the bedtime hours.
