Oral tablets and liquid strengths vary; injectable formulations are also available. Check the exact product.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A loop diuretic used to reduce fluid retention (oedema) in heart failure, kidney disease, and liver cirrhosis. Also used for hypertension, often in combination with other antihypertensives.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Avoid in people with severe electrolyte depletion, anuria, or known hypersensitivity to furosemide or sulfonamides. Use with caution in hepatic coma.
Important precautions
Monitor electrolytes (especially potassium, sodium, and magnesium), kidney function, and blood pressure regularly. Ensure adequate fluid intake. Elderly patients are at higher risk of dehydration and falls. Gout may worsen.
Common side effects
Common effects include increased urination, dizziness, low potassium (which can cause cramps or weakness), and low blood pressure on standing.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent care for severe electrolyte disturbance (muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, confusion), severe dehydration, or sudden hearing loss (rare, more likely with high doses).
Important interactions
Furosemide interacts with aminoglycosides (increased hearing and kidney toxicity), lithium, NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, digoxin, and antidiabetics. Review all medicines with your doctor.
Allergy considerations
Avoid if you have a known allergy to furosemide or sulfonamide-class medicines. Report any rash or breathing reaction after the first dose.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Use only when clearly necessary ‚ furosemide can reduce placental blood flow. Specialist supervision is required during pregnancy.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
May suppress lactation and passes into breast milk. Avoid where possible during breastfeeding ‚ discuss alternatives with your doctor.
Children and older adults
In children, dosing is calculated by weight and requires specialist oversight. Older adults are at higher risk of dehydration, electrolyte problems, and falls.
Storage
Store below 25°C in the original pack, away from light and moisture. Injectable solutions should be kept as per the label. Keep out of children's reach.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is late in the day, skip it to avoid nighttime urination. Do not double up.
Overdose
Overdose can cause severe dehydration, electrolyte disturbance, low blood pressure, and kidney damage. Call a poison helpline or emergency service immediately.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Oral tablets and liquid strengths vary; injectable formulations are also available. Check the exact product.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A loop diuretic used to reduce fluid retention (oedema) in heart failure, kidney disease, and liver cirrhosis. Also used for hypertension, often in combination with other antihypertensives.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Avoid in people with severe electrolyte depletion, anuria, or known hypersensitivity to furosemide or sulfonamides. Use with caution in hepatic coma.
Important precautions
Monitor electrolytes (especially potassium, sodium, and magnesium), kidney function, and blood pressure regularly. Ensure adequate fluid intake. Elderly patients are at higher risk of dehydration and falls. Gout may worsen.
Common side effects
Common effects include increased urination, dizziness, low potassium (which can cause cramps or weakness), and low blood pressure on standing.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent care for severe electrolyte disturbance (muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, confusion), severe dehydration, or sudden hearing loss (rare, more likely with high doses).
Important interactions
Furosemide interacts with aminoglycosides (increased hearing and kidney toxicity), lithium, NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, digoxin, and antidiabetics. Review all medicines with your doctor.
Allergy considerations
Avoid if you have a known allergy to furosemide or sulfonamide-class medicines. Report any rash or breathing reaction after the first dose.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Use only when clearly necessary ‚ furosemide can reduce placental blood flow. Specialist supervision is required during pregnancy.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
May suppress lactation and passes into breast milk. Avoid where possible during breastfeeding ‚ discuss alternatives with your doctor.
Children and older adults
In children, dosing is calculated by weight and requires specialist oversight. Older adults are at higher risk of dehydration, electrolyte problems, and falls.
Storage
Store below 25°C in the original pack, away from light and moisture. Injectable solutions should be kept as per the label. Keep out of children's reach.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is late in the day, skip it to avoid nighttime urination. Do not double up.
Overdose
Overdose can cause severe dehydration, electrolyte disturbance, low blood pressure, and kidney damage. Call a poison helpline or emergency service immediately.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
