Furosemide
Furosemide is a strong diuretic (water pill) found in 5 medicines sold in India, such as Lasix 40, Lasix Injection, Lasipen 40. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
Also called: frusemide
What it is used for
Removes extra fluid in heart failure, kidney or liver disease and swelling.
How it works
A strong loop diuretic (water pill) that removes excess fluid in heart failure, kidney and liver disease, and sometimes lowers blood pressure.
How to take it
Usually 20 to 80 mg in the morning (a second dose before 4 pm if twice daily). Weigh yourself daily if your doctor asks.
Common side effects
- Passing a lot of urine
- Thirst
- Dizziness
- Low potassium, sodium or magnesium
Get medical help straight away if
- Muscle cramps, weakness or confusion
- Hearing problems or ringing in ears
- Gout
- Very little urine
Be careful
Causes frequent urination; can lower potassium.
Other medicines and interactions
Raises lithium levels and kidney risk with NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors and ARBs. Low potassium increases digoxin toxicity.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Used in pregnancy only if clearly needed; can reduce milk supply.
Brands of Furosemide (5)
Common questions
What is Furosemide used for?
Removes extra fluid in heart failure, kidney or liver disease and swelling.
How does Furosemide work?
A strong loop diuretic (water pill) that removes excess fluid in heart failure, kidney and liver disease, and sometimes lowers blood pressure.
How should I take Furosemide?
Usually 20 to 80 mg in the morning (a second dose before 4 pm if twice daily). Weigh yourself daily if your doctor asks.
What are the side effects of Furosemide?
Common: Passing a lot of urine, thirst, dizziness, low potassium, sodium or magnesium. Get help straight away for: Muscle cramps, weakness or confusion, hearing problems or ringing in ears, gout, very little urine.
Does Furosemide interact with other medicines?
Raises lithium levels and kidney risk with NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors and ARBs. Low potassium increases digoxin toxicity.
Is Furosemide safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Used in pregnancy only if clearly needed; can reduce milk supply.
Does Furosemide need a prescription in India?
Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.
Which brands contain Furosemide?
Frusamide 40, Frusenex 40, Lasipen 40, Lasix 40, Lasix Injection.
Sources and further reading
- Furosemide: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
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