Salix
Generic Name
Furosemide
Manufacturer
Sanofi
Country
France
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| salix 2 mg syrup | ৳ 14.47 | N/A |
| salix 4 mg tablet | ৳ 0.34 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Furosemide is a potent loop diuretic used to treat edema (fluid retention) associated with congestive heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease, and to manage hypertension.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Oral: Initial 20-80 mg as a single dose, adjusted according to patient response. IV/IM: 20-40 mg as a single dose, increased by 20 mg every 2 hours if needed.
Elderly
Lower initial doses are recommended, with careful titration due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is necessary. Higher doses may be required in severe renal failure, but careful monitoring is essential to prevent toxicity.
How to Take
Oral tablets can be taken with or without food. Intravenous administration should be slow, over 1-2 minutes. Intramuscular injection is reserved for situations where oral or IV administration is not feasible.
Mechanism of Action
Furosemide inhibits the Na-K-2Cl cotransporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle, preventing the reabsorption of sodium, potassium, and chloride ions. This leads to increased excretion of water, sodium, chloride, and potassium.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Oral: 30-60 minutes; Intravenous: ~5 minutes.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys (approximately 60-70%), with some biliary excretion.
Half life
1-2 hours in healthy individuals, prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; bioavailability ranges from 10% to 100% (average 60-70%).
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism; primarily eliminated unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Anuria (absence of urine production)
- Hypersensitivity to furosemide or sulfonamides
- Severe electrolyte depletion (e.g., severe hypokalemia, hyponatremia)
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium levels and potential for lithium toxicity due to reduced renal excretion.
Aminoglycosides
Increased risk of ototoxicity (hearing damage).
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Antihypertensive agents
Additive hypotensive effects, potentially leading to symptomatic hypotension.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the diuretic and antihypertensive effects of furosemide.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe dehydration, electrolyte depletion (e.g., hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypochloremia), hypotension, and cardiovascular collapse. Management involves supportive care, correction of fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and blood pressure support.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Furosemide is excreted in breast milk and may inhibit lactation; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Anuria (absence of urine production)
- Hypersensitivity to furosemide or sulfonamides
- Severe electrolyte depletion (e.g., severe hypokalemia, hyponatremia)
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium levels and potential for lithium toxicity due to reduced renal excretion.
Aminoglycosides
Increased risk of ototoxicity (hearing damage).
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Antihypertensive agents
Additive hypotensive effects, potentially leading to symptomatic hypotension.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the diuretic and antihypertensive effects of furosemide.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe dehydration, electrolyte depletion (e.g., hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypochloremia), hypotension, and cardiovascular collapse. Management involves supportive care, correction of fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and blood pressure support.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Furosemide is excreted in breast milk and may inhibit lactation; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, depending on formulation and packaging.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Furosemide has been extensively studied since its introduction in the 1960s, with numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy in managing edema and hypertension. Ongoing research continues to explore its use in various clinical settings and patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum electrolytes (especially potassium, sodium, chloride) regularly
- Renal function tests (BUN, creatinine)
- Blood pressure
- Blood glucose levels (in diabetics)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize careful monitoring of fluid status and electrolytes, especially potassium, during treatment.
- Advise patients about potential orthostatic hypotension and encourage slow position changes.
- Caution against concomitant use with ototoxic drugs like aminoglycosides.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning to avoid nocturnal diuresis.
- Report any signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance (e.g., excessive thirst, muscle cramps, weakness).
- Avoid sudden changes in position to prevent dizziness from orthostatic hypotension.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Furosemide may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially at the beginning of treatment or when changing dosage. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Follow a diet that is low in sodium as recommended by your doctor.
- Increase intake of potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas, oranges, potatoes) unless contraindicated or advised otherwise by your doctor.
- Stay hydrated by drinking appropriate amounts of fluid as advised by your doctor.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Salix Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
