CVS: Furosemide

Question 1

What class of Meds is Furosemide?

Answer 1

Loop diuretics

Question 2

What does Furosemide treat? (4 things)

Answer 2

Oedema assoc w:

1. CHF
2. Cirrhosis
3. HTN
4. Pulmonary oedema (as adjunctive therapy)

Question 3

What is the MOA of Furosemide? (2 steps)

Answer 3

1. Inhibits Chloride reabsorption @ Distal Tubule (via Na-Cl cotransporter)
2. This increases Excretion of: Na, Cl, H2O

Question 4

What are the Monitoring Requirements for Furosemide?

Answer 4

Monitor electrolytes during tx

Question 5

What are the Side fx of Furosemide? (7 things)

Answer 5

1. Dizziness
2. Electrolyte imbalance
3. Fatigue
4. Headache
5. Metabolic alkalosis
6. Muscle spasms
7. Nausea

Question 6

What are the CI for taking Furosemide? (4 things)

Answer 6

1. Anuria (not weeing)
2. Renal failure (bc nephrotoxic / hepatotoxic drugs)
3. Severe hypokalaemia
4. Severe hyponatraemia

Question 7

When should Furosemide be used with Caution? (5 things)

Answer 7

1. DM (can exacerbate)
2. Gout (can exacerbate)
3. Hypotension (correct b4 starting Furosemide)
4. Hypovolaemia (correct b4 starting Furosemide)
5. Urinary retention

Question 8

How can Furosemide damage the Liver?

Answer 8

1. Hypokalaemia –> Hepatic encephalopathy (–> Coma)
2. Hypomagnesaemia (increases risk in cirrhosis) –> Arrhythmias

Question 9

How can you prevent Hepatic encephalopathy induced by Hypokalaemia from Furosemide?

Answer 9

Potassium sparing diuretics