Generic Name: E: FUROSEMIDE (fur-OH-se-mide)
Drug Manufacturer: AVENTIS
Common Uses: This medicine is a loop
diuretic used to treat high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and
swelling due to excess body water. It may also be used to treat other
conditions as determined by your doctor.
How to use this Medicine: Follow the
directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine
may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. WHEN YOU FIRST START TAKING
THIS MEDICINE, it may cause an increase in urine or in frequency of
urination. If you are taking 1 dose daily, take it in the morning to prevent
this medicine from affecting your sleep. If you are taking more than 1 dose,
take the last dose no later than 6 pm. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room
temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU
MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost
time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular
dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions: YOUR DOCTOR MAY HAVE ALSO
PRESCRIBED a potassium supplement for you. If so, follow the dosing
carefully. Do not start taking additional potassium on your own or change
your diet to include more potassium without first checking with your doctor.
THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE dizziness. Drinking alcohol will intensify this
effect. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be
dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. BEFORE YOU BEGIN
TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with
your doctor or pharmacist. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT,
discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine
during pregnancy. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. DO NOT
BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.
Possible Side Effects: SIDE EFFECTS,
that may go away during treatment, include dizziness or lightheadedness when
sitting up or standing, or nausea. If they continue or are bothersome, check
with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you
experience diarrhea, muscle pain or cramps, vomiting, loss of appetite,
restlessness, dry mouth, unusual thirst, unusual tiredness or weakness, or
rapid or irregular heartbeat. If you notice other effects not listed above,
contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.