FUROSEMIDE
(For veterinary information only)
IMPORTANT NOTE: Please tell the veterinarian if your pet has ever had any kidney or liver problems, and if your pet is taking any other medications.
As with all medications, it is extremely important that this medication be used ONLY for the pet for which it is prescribed.
BRAND NAME: LASIX®, SALIX®, NOVO-SEMIDE®
HOW THIS MEDICATION IS USED
Furosemide leads to water loss via increased urine production and is classified as a loop diuretic. This makes it a useful medication in conditions where the removal of excessive fluids would be beneficial. Such conditions include: congestive heart failure, edema, and acute kidney failure. It may also be useful in treating hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood), and hyperkalemia (too much potassium in the blood) because it encourages their loss in the urine.
SIDE EFFECTS
Inherent to all diuretics, including furosemide, are the following side effects: Increased thirst and increased urination.
Furosemide is associated with an increase in blood sugar levels. This is not a problem for most patients but a different diuretic may be prescribed for a diabetic patient.
Hearing loss has been reported, especially in cats, when large amounts of injectable furosemide have been used in a crisis.
Urination is usually seen within 30 minutes of the administration of an oral dose of furosemide. The drug peaks in strength after 1-2 hours after it is given orally.
INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER DRUGS
Since furosemide is frequently prescribed along with an ACE inhibitor such as enalapril, kidney and liver function should be checked by a blood test shortly after beginning this medication, and also periodically thereafter. Usually this is every 6 months; however, it may be more frequently if your pet is having problems.
The airway dilator theophylline may be able to reach higher blood levels when used in conjunction with furosemide.
Furosemide is often used concurrently with digitalis derivatives. If furosemide leads to a significant drop in blood potassium levels, this can increase the risk of heart rhythms disturbances and other signs of digitalis toxicity.
Furosemide is often used in combination with prednisone to reduce serum calcium levels. It is possible for this combination of medication to lead to a reduction in potassium level.
Aminoglycoside antibiotics (amikacin, gentamicin etc.) have properties that make them toxic to the ear and to the kidney. These properties increase with concomitant use of furosemide.
Tell your veterinarian if your pet is on:
CONCERNS AND CAUTIONS
It is best not to use this medication if your pet is dehydrated, or if water is being restricted. Call to discuss this with your pet’s veterinarian.
Weakness or lethargy could be an indicator that blood potassium has dropped too low. Be sure to inform your veterinarian if your pet seems listless.
Due to the increased calcium excretion brought on by furosemide (i.e. an increase in urinary calcium levels), there could be a problem using this medication in patients with a history of calcium oxalate bladder stone formation.
The loss of water soluble vitamins or urine can be a problem for patients receiving diuretics. Your pet’s veterinarian may prescribe a special diet or a supplement for your pet.
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 672-7800.