Furosemide (Lasix)

Question 1

Classification

Answer 1

Potent loop diuretic

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

• Inhibits the absorption of sodium, chloride ions & water in the loop of Heinle, as well as the convoluted tubule of the nephron causing decreased absorption of water and increased production of urine (dieresis).

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

• Congestive Heart Failure
• Pulmonary edema
• Hypertensive emergency

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

• Known sensitivity to sulfonamides or furosemide

Question 5

Adverse Effects

Answer 5

• Vertigo, dizziness, weakness, orthostatic hypotension, hypokalemia, thrombophlebitis
• Pts with anuria, severe renal failure, untreated hepatic coma, increasing azotemia, and electrolyte depletion can develop life-threatening consequences.

Question 6

Administration

Answer 6

• Congestive Heart Failure & Pulmonary Edema
  
  • Adult: 40 mg IV/IO slowly over 1-2 minutes. If satisfactory response is not achieved within 1 hour, additional dose of 80 mg can be given. (Max single dose is 160-200 mg)
  • Pediatrics: 1 mg/kg IV/IO/IM. If response not satisfactory, an additional dose of 2 mg/kg may be administered no sooner than 2 hours after the first dose.
• Hypertensive Emergency
  
  • ​Adult: 40-80 mg IV/IO
  • Pediatric: 1 mg/kg IV/IO/IM

Question 7

Special Considerations

Answer 7

• Onset of action for IV/IO occurs within 5 minutes, peaks within 30 minutes.