Furosemide Flashcards
What is the trade name for furosemide?
Lasix
What is the generic name for Lasix?
furosemide
Classification - furosemide
Loop diuretic
How is furosemide supplied?
40 mg/4 mL ampule (10 mg/mL)
Actions (Pharmacodynamics) - furosemide
❑ Diuretic: Inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the proximal part of the ascending loop of Henle and distal renal tubule, promoting excretion of sodium, water, chloride and potassium.
❑ Non-potassium (K+) sparing diuretic; potassium (K+) excreted from the body in the urine.
Indications - furosemide
❑ Acute pulmonary edema (BP >90 mmHg without S&S of shock)
❑ Hypertensive emergencies
❑ Removal of Potassium for management of Hyperkalemia
Adult dosage - furosemide
Adult: 1.0 mg/kg to a max of 40-80mg SIVP over 1 to 2 minutes; If no response in 15-20 min double dose up to 2 mg/kg SIVP over 1 to 2 min. Give slow to prevent blindness.
Pediatric dosage - furosemide
Pediatric: 0.5 - 1.0 mg/kg slow IV/IM push. You may repeat at double the initial dose if no effect in 2 hours if needed.
Contraindications - furosemide
❑ Complete renal shutdown (anuria except acute)
❑ Hypokalemia
❑ Severe hypovolemia, hypotension, dehydration, BP < 90 systolic
❑ Hypersensitivity to furosemide and sulphonamides
❑ Electrolyte imbalance
What should be monitored for when giving furosemide?
❑ Watch for signs of electrolyte depletion & monitor ECG. Monitor for signs of ototoxicity (can happen with rapid administration).
❑ Elderly and debilitated patients need close observation as they are more susceptible to drug induced diuresis leading to rapid dehydration, hypovolemia, hypokalemia, hyponatremia and circulatory collapse.
What should be considered with furosemide for long transports?
Consider urinary catheterization in long transports
Your patient is sensitive to sulfonamides. What should you consider when giving Lasix?
Patients sensitive to sulfonamides may also be sensitive to furosemide. You can still administer the Lasix but should do so with caution.
