Lasix 40mg

Forms and dosages

Lasix is supplied as round, white, scored tablets in 20mg, 40mg and 100mg strengths. For chronic oedema in adults, typical starting doses range from 20 to 40mg once or twice daily, taken in the morning to avoid nighttime urination. The dose may be increased gradually based on response and renal function, up to 600mg per day in refractory cases. According to the prescribing information, dose timing should be planned around daily activities given the rapid onset of diuresis.

Indications

Lasix is approved for fluid overload due to heart failure, chronic kidney disease and liver cirrhosis (with or without ascites), as well as acute pulmonary oedema. It is also approved for hypertension, although thiazide diuretics are preferred as first-line. According to clinical guidelines, the medication is prescribed only after the cause of fluid overload has been identified, since other treatments may be needed in parallel. Self-medication with furosemide for weight loss is not recommended and is associated with documented harms.