Lasix Injection 20mg 50 x 2ml ampoules (Furosemide) – Sanofi

Heart Failure

How it works
It has been demonstrated that Furosemide inhibits primarily the absorption of sodium and chloride not only in the proximal and distal tubules but also in the loop of Henle. The high degree of efficacy is largely due to the unique site of action. The action on the distal tubule is independent of any inhibitory effect on carbonic anhydrase and aldosterone.

Usage And Safety
Dosage
Oedema : Adults : Treatment is usually begun with 20-80mg as single dose daily or an alternate days . Children : Usual : 2mg/kg as single dose , may increase by 1-2mg/kg after 6-8 hr . Max : 6mg/kg. Heart Failure : Adults : Usual : 20-80mg as a single dose , may repeat or increase by 20-40mg after 6-8hr . Max : 600mg/dday . Hypertension : Adults : Initial : 40mg twice daily . Maintenance : Adjust according to response . OR As directed by your physician .

Side Effects
Gastrointestinal System Reaction : Hepatic encephalopathy in patients with oral and gastric irritation hepatocellular insufficiency , cramping , pancreatitis , diarrhea , jaundice (intrahepatic cholestatic jaundice) , constipation , increased liver enzymes , nausea , anorexia , vomiting ; Systemic Hypersensitivity Reactions : Severe anaphylactic or anaphylactoid , interstitial nephritis reactions (e.g. with shock) , necrotizing angiitis , systemic vasculitis ; Central Nervous System Reactions , tinnitus and hearing loss , dizziness , paresthesias , headache , vertigo , blurred vision , xanthopsia .

Drug Interactions
Aminoglycoside antibiotics , ethacrynic acid , cisplatin , tubocurarine , Lithium , angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers , norepinephrine , sucralfate , Phenytoin , Methotrexate , cephalosporin , cyclosporine .

Indication
It is use in : ? Fluid retention associated with chronic congestive cardiac failure (if diuretic treatment is required). ? Fluid retention associated with acute congestive cardiac failure. ? Fluid retention associated with chronic renal failure. ? Maintenance of fluid excretion in acute renal failure, including that due to pregnancy or burns. ? Fluid retention associated with nephrotic syndrome (if diuretic treatment is required). ? Fluid retention associated with liver disease (if necessary to supplement treatment with aldosterone antagonists). ? Hypertension. ? Hypertensive crisis (as a supportive measure). ? Support of forced diuresis.

When not to Use
It must not be used: ? In patients with hypersensitivity to furosemide or any of the excipients . Patients allergic to sulfonamides (e.g. sulfonamide antibiotics or sulfonylureas) may show crosssensitivity to furosemide . ? In patients with hypovolaemia or dehydration. ? In patients with anuric renal failure not responding to frusemide. ? In patients with severe hypokalaemia ? In patients with severe hyponatraemia .

Precautions
Precaution
In patients with partial obstruction of urinary outflow (e.g in patients with bladder – emptying disorders, prostatic hyperplasia, narrowing of the urethra) increased production of urine may provoke or aggravate complaints. Thus, these patients require careful monitoring – especially during the initial stages of treatment.

Warnings

Regular monitoring of serum sodium, potassium and creatinine is generally recommended during furosemide therapy; particularly close monitoring is required in patients at high risk of developing electrolyte imbalances or in case of significant additional fluid loss (e.g. due to vomiting, diarrhoea or intense sweating). Hypovolaemia or dehydration as well as any significant electrolyte and acid-base disturbances must be corrected. This may require temporary discontinuation of furosemide .

Patients allergic to sulfonamides may also be allergic to furosemide. The possibility exists of exacerbation or activation of systemic lupus erythematosus.

Additional Information
Pregnancy category
Always consult your physician before using any medicine.

Storage (YES/NO)
Store this medicine at room temperature, away from direct light and heat