Lasix tablets are usually well-tolerated. However, you can experience minor side effects, including the following ones:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Fast/irregular heartbeat
- Blurring of vision
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Dehydration
Managing the Side Effects
Here's what you can do to manage the minor side effects:
- Headache: If you experience a headache while taking Lasix tablets, try taking an over-the-counter pain medication. You may also find relief by resting in a quiet, dark room and applying a cold compress to your forehead.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness: If you experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking Lasix tablets, try standing up slowly from a sitting or lying position. Avoid sudden movements or standing for long periods. If these symptoms persist, contact your healthcare provider.
- Fast or irregular heartbeat: If you experience a fast or irregular heartbeat while taking Lasix tablets, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They may need to adjust your dosage or recommend a different medication.
- Blurring of vision: If you experience blurring of vision while taking Lasix tablets, contact your healthcare provider immediately. This may indicate a more severe side effect, such as an electrolyte imbalance or dehydration.
- Electrolyte imbalance: Lasix tablets can cause electrolyte imbalances, leading to symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting your dosage or monitoring your electrolyte levels.
- Dehydration: Lasix tablets can also cause dehydration, especially if you are not drinking enough fluids. Be sure to drink plenty of water while taking Lasix tablets, and avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine, which can worsen dehydration. If you experience symptoms such as dry mouth, thirst, or dark-coloured urine, contact your healthcare provider.
Precautions
Pregnancy
Lasix tablets should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Lasix tablets have been shown to cross the placenta, and high doses have been associated with fetal abnormalities. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Lasix tablets.
Breastfeeding
Lasix tablets are excreted into breast milk and may cause adverse effects in nursing infants. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Lasix tablets.
Alcohol
Alcohol can enhance the side effects of Lasix tablets, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and dehydration. It is recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Lasix tablets.
Liver
People with liver disease should take precautions while using Lasix tablets. There is a possibility that the dosage of the Lasix tablets must be adjusted. Please talk to your doctor, however, it is not recommended for patients with severe liver disorders to take Lasix tablets.
Kidney
Lasix tablets are primarily used to treat conditions related to fluid retention, which can be caused by kidney disease. However, in patients with severe renal impairment, the dose of Lasix tablets may need to be adjusted, or the drug may need to be discontinued altogether. If you have kidney disease, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Lasix tablets.
Using Machine and Driving
Lasix tablets can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or blurred vision, which may impair your ability to operate machinery or drive a car safely. It is recommended to avoid activities that require alertness until you know how Lasix tablets affect you.
Allergy
If you have a known allergy to furosemide or any other ingredients in Lasix tablets, do not take the medication. If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, rash, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
Use In Children
Lasix tablets can be used in children, but the dose is based on body weight and should be carefully monitored by a healthcare provider.
Use In Older Patients
Older patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of Lasix tablets, such as electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, and dizziness. The dose of Lasix tablets may need to be adjusted or monitored more closely in older patients.
Interaction
Drug interactions can change how the medications work or increase the risks for severe side effects.
Drug-Drug Interactions
Lasix tablets may interact with other medications, including:
- Metoprolol
- Ramipril
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Atorvastatin
- Sildenafil
- Carbamazepine
- Phenobarbital
- Cyclosporine
- Ibuprofen
- Aspirin
- Sotalol
Drug-Food Interactions
Lasix tablets may interact with certain foods or drinks, including
- High-sodium foods, which can decrease the effectiveness of Lasix tablets
- Grapefruit juice, which can increase the absorption of Lasix tablets and the risk of side effects
Drug-Disease Interactions
Lasix tablets may interact with certain medical conditions, including:
- Kidney disease, which can increase the risk of side effects or require dosage adjustment
- Liver disease, which can affect the elimination of Lasix tablets from the body and increase the risk of side effects
- Gout, which can be exacerbated by the use of Lasix tablets
- Diabetes, which can affect blood sugar levels and require monitoring when taking Lasix tablets.