Furosemide 10mg/ml Inj, 4ml
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
For storage and disposal, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the best approach if you need to keep this medication at home.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor promptly to receive guidance on the appropriate course of action.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Follow your doctor's instructions regarding fluid intake and dietary salt restriction.
- Report any signs of dehydration (e.g., extreme thirst, dry mouth, dizziness) or electrolyte imbalance (e.g., muscle cramps, weakness, irregular heartbeat).
- Avoid sudden changes in position (e.g., standing up quickly) to prevent dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Protect yourself from sun exposure as furosemide can increase sun sensitivity.
- If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar closely as furosemide may affect it.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Furosemide 10mg/ml Oral Soln 60ml
- Furosemide 10mg/ml Oral Soln 120ml
- Furosemide 8mg/ml Solution
- Furosemide 10mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Furosemide 10mg/ml Inj 4ml
- Furosemide 40mg Tablets
- Furosemide 80mg Tablets
- Furosemide 20mg Tablets
- Furosemide 80mg Tablets
- Furosemide 20mg Tablets
- Furosemide 40mg Tablets
- Furosemide 40mg/4ml Inj 4ml
- Furosemide 10mg/ml Inj 2ml
- Furosemide 40mg/4ml Inj 4ml
- Furosemide 10mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Furosemide 10mg/ml Inj, 4ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
BLACK BOX WARNING
Side Effects
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash or hives
+ Itching or red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever)
+ Wheezing or tightness in the chest or throat
+ Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of fluid and electrolyte problems, including:
+ Mood changes or confusion
+ Muscle pain or weakness
+ Abnormal or rapid heartbeat
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Increased thirst or seizures
+ Feeling extremely tired or weak
+ Decreased appetite or inability to urinate
+ Changes in urine production or dry mouth and eyes
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
Signs of liver problems, such as:
+ Dark urine
+ Fatigue or decreased appetite
+ Stomach pain or upset
+ Light-colored stools or vomiting
+ Yellow skin or eyes
Signs of kidney problems, including:
+ Inability to urinate or changes in urine production
+ Blood in the urine or significant weight gain
Signs of pancreatitis (pancreas problems), such as:
+ Severe stomach or back pain
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
Severe dizziness or fainting
Abnormal burning, numbness, or tingling sensations
Blurred vision
Restlessness
Severe skin reactions, including:
+ Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)
+ Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)
+ Other serious reactions that may affect body organs and be life-threatening
+ Symptoms may include: red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; sores in the mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin; fever; chills; body aches; shortness of breath; or swollen glands
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug may cause side effects in some people. While many individuals may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Dizziness or headache
Constipation, diarrhea, stomach upset, vomiting, or decreased appetite
* Stomach cramps
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Extreme thirst or dry mouth
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Confusion
- Decreased urination or no urination
- Ringing in the ears or hearing loss
- Skin rash or itching
Before Using This Medicine
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you have difficulty urinating.
If you are dehydrated or have electrolyte imbalances.
If you have a history of liver problems or low blood pressure.
Additionally, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:
Chloral hydrate
Ethacrynic acid
* Lithium
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions. It is crucial to discuss all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, with your doctor and pharmacist. This will help ensure that it is safe to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
To ensure your safety, avoid driving and other activities that require alertness until you understand how this medication affects you. When changing positions, rise slowly from sitting or lying down to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting. Be cautious when using stairs.
If you have diabetes (high blood sugar), closely monitor your blood sugar levels. Be aware of signs of high blood sugar, such as confusion, drowsiness, increased thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath. Report these symptoms to your doctor.
If you follow a low-salt or salt-free diet, consult your doctor. Additionally, if you have high blood pressure and are taking this medication, discuss the use of over-the-counter (OTC) products that may increase blood pressure with your doctor. These products include cough and cold medications, diet pills, stimulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, and certain natural products or aids.
Regularly check your blood pressure as instructed by your doctor. Also, have your blood work checked as directed by your doctor and discuss the results with them.
Be aware that this medication may cause increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels. If you have high cholesterol or triglycerides, consult your doctor. You may require additional potassium supplements; discuss this with your doctor.
Before using alcohol, marijuana or other cannabis products, or prescription or OTC medications that may cause drowsiness, consult your doctor.
This medication may increase your risk of sunburn. Take precautions when exposed to the sun, and inform your doctor if you experience easy sunburning while taking this medication.
Monitor yourself for gout attacks. If you have lupus, this medication may exacerbate your condition or cause a flare-up. Immediately report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.
Hearing problems, including decreased hearing or hearing loss, have been associated with this medication. These effects may be temporary or permanent. If you experience ringing in the ears, changes in your hearing, or a feeling of fullness in your ears, contact your doctor promptly.
Low blood cell counts have been reported with this medication, which can increase the risk of bleeding, infections, or anemia. If you experience signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat), unexplained bruising or bleeding, or feel extremely tired or weak, contact your doctor immediately.
If you are 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks of this medication with your doctor.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Profound diuresis (excessive urination)
- Severe dehydration
- Electrolyte depletion (especially hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypochloremia)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiovascular collapse
- Thrombosis and embolism (due to hemoconcentration)
- Acute renal failure
- Lethargy, confusion, coma
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention. Management is primarily supportive, including fluid and electrolyte replacement. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control).
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Anuria
- Hepatic coma or precoma (if electrolyte depletion is present)
Major Interactions
- Aminoglycosides (increased ototoxicity)
- Ethacrynic acid (increased ototoxicity)
- Lithium (decreased renal clearance of lithium, leading to toxicity)
- NSAIDs (may reduce diuretic and antihypertensive effects, risk of renal impairment)
- Chloral hydrate (flushing, sweating, blood pressure changes)
- Cisplatin (increased ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity)
- Phenytoin (reduced diuretic effect of furosemide)
Moderate Interactions
- ACE inhibitors/ARBs (risk of severe hypotension and renal impairment, especially with initial doses)
- Corticosteroids (increased risk of hypokalemia)
- Digoxin (increased risk of digoxin toxicity due to hypokalemia)
- Hypotensive agents (additive hypotensive effects)
- Neuromuscular blockers (potentiated effect due to electrolyte imbalance)
- Sucralfate (reduced absorption of furosemide if given concurrently)
- Probenecid (reduced renal clearance of furosemide)
- Salicylates (reduced renal excretion of salicylates, increased risk of toxicity)
Minor Interactions
- Antidiabetic agents (may decrease hypoglycemic effect)
- Theophylline (may alter clearance)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing imbalances, as furosemide can cause significant electrolyte disturbances.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To assess baseline kidney function, which influences dosing and risk of adverse effects.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To establish baseline and monitor for hypotension.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To assess baseline hydration and severity of fluid overload.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Daily initially, then 1-3 times weekly, or as clinically indicated based on patient condition and dose.
Target: Within normal limits (e.g., K: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L)
Action Threshold: Significant deviations (e.g., K < 3.0 mEq/L or > 5.5 mEq/L), symptomatic electrolyte imbalance.
Frequency: Weekly or as clinically indicated, especially with dose changes or concurrent nephrotoxic drugs.
Target: Stable or improving
Action Threshold: Significant increase in BUN/Cr, signs of acute kidney injury.
Frequency: Daily or multiple times daily during acute phase, then regularly.
Target: Individualized, avoid symptomatic hypotension.
Action Threshold: Symptomatic hypotension, systolic BP < 90 mmHg or significant drop from baseline.
Frequency: Daily (weight, urine output), ongoing clinical assessment.
Target: Gradual weight loss (0.5-1 kg/day), adequate urine output.
Action Threshold: Excessive weight loss (>1-2 kg/day), signs of dehydration, oliguria/anuria.
Frequency: Periodically, especially in diabetic patients.
Target: Within target range for diabetes.
Action Threshold: Significant hyperglycemia.
Frequency: Periodically, especially in patients with gout or predisposition.
Target: Within normal limits or controlled.
Action Threshold: Significant hyperuricemia, acute gout attack.
Symptom Monitoring
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, thirst, decreased skin turgor, dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion)
- Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance (muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, irregular heart beat, nausea, vomiting, confusion, seizures)
- Ototoxicity (tinnitus, hearing loss, vertigo)
- Hypotension (dizziness, lightheadedness, syncope)
- Gout flares (joint pain, swelling, redness)
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Furosemide can cause fetal or neonatal jaundice, thrombocytopenia, and other adverse reactions seen in adults. In animal studies, furosemide caused maternal deaths and abortions at high doses.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
Furosemide is excreted in breast milk. It may inhibit lactation. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric Use
Use with caution. Neonates, especially premature infants, may have prolonged half-life and increased sensitivity to effects. Risk of nephrocalcinosis/nephrolithiasis, especially in premature infants. Close monitoring of fluid and electrolytes is crucial.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of furosemide, particularly hypotension and electrolyte disturbances. Start with lower doses and titrate carefully. Increased risk of dehydration and falls.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Furosemide is a potent diuretic; always start with the lowest effective dose and titrate carefully.
- Administer IV furosemide slowly (over 1-2 minutes) to minimize the risk of ototoxicity, especially with higher doses or in patients with renal impairment.
- Monitor electrolytes (especially potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium) frequently, as imbalances are common and can be severe.
- Consider potassium supplementation or co-administration with a potassium-sparing diuretic to prevent hypokalemia.
- Be vigilant for signs of dehydration and orthostatic hypotension, particularly in elderly patients or those on concomitant antihypertensives.
- Furosemide can cause photosensitivity; advise patients to use sun protection.
- In patients with severe renal impairment, higher doses may be needed, but monitor for ototoxicity and ensure no anuria is present.
- Avoid concurrent use with aminoglycosides due to increased risk of ototoxicity.
Alternative Therapies
- Bumetanide (another loop diuretic, often more potent on a mg-for-mg basis)
- Torsemide (another loop diuretic, longer half-life)
- Ethacrynic acid (loop diuretic, used in patients with sulfonamide allergy)
- Hydrochlorothiazide (thiazide diuretic, less potent, different site of action)
- Metolazone (thiazide-like diuretic, often used in combination with loop diuretics for refractory edema)
- Spironolactone (potassium-sparing diuretic, often used in combination)