Loop diuretic
Furosemide in the United States: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Furosemide in the United States under FDA (Food and Drug Administration): prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in USD. Furosemide belongs to the Loop diuretic class.
- Regulator
- FDA (Food and Drug Administration)
- Currency
- USD
About Furosemide
Furosemide is approved for the treatment of fluid overload due to heart failure, chronic kidney disease and liver cirrhosis (with or without ascites), as well as for acute pulmonary oedema. In the US, most prescription medications require a written or e-prescription from a licensed prescriber. A handful of formerly-prescription medications have moved to OTC after FDA review.
Mechanism and action
Furosemide acts on the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle in the kidney, where it inhibits the Na+/K+/2Cl- co-transporter (NKCC2).
Brands and generics in the United States
In the United States, Furosemide is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. US pharmacies — both chain (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) and independent — dispense Rx medications under state pharmacy board oversight. Pharmacist consultation is encouraged at pickup. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local FDA (Food and Drug Administration) equivalence rules, and the price difference in USD is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Online prescription fulfilment in the US is well-regulated through state-licensed mail-order and tele-prescribing services. Importing prescription medication for personal use is restricted under federal law. For Furosemide specifically, the legal online options in the United States depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under FDA (Food and Drug Administration).
Frequently asked questions
Is Furosemide available in the United States? ▾
Yes — Furosemide and its brands are available in the United States through pharmacies authorised by FDA (Food and Drug Administration), in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Furosemide in the United States? ▾
In the US, most prescription medications require a written or e-prescription from a licensed prescriber. A handful of formerly-prescription medications have moved to OTC after FDA review. The exact status of Furosemide (Rx or OTC) is determined by FDA (Food and Drug Administration); most active ingredients in the Loop diuretic class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Furosemide cost in the United States? ▾
The price in USD depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Furosemide in the United States
Furosemide in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.