Lasix is a prescription drug that is used in elimination of extra salt and water among people with fluid retention. The fluid retention and swelling also referred as edema is caused by kidney, liver disease, hear failure and other conditions. It is taken on its own or in combination with other drugs to treat high blood pressure. It is a part of drugs referred as water pills or loop diuretics, which reduce the water in the body by boosting the flow of urine. The drug is also used in racehorses in treatment of pulmonary hemorrhage caused by exercise.
Precautionary measures
Just like many other drugs it is supposed to be taken in the right way to avoid further complications. Here are some precautionary measures you should take.
· The drug is not recommended for elderly patients because it puts them into high risks of suffering from heart, liver and kidney problems.
· Before you take the drug, you should talk with your doctor on whether you may develop certain allergies or whether you suffer from other allergies, especially the ones that involve sulfa drugs.
· You should inform your doctor if you make any changes in your diet and exercise routine, stopped smoking or minimize stress. This is necessary because such changes may require your doctor to make some re-evaluation of your recommended dosage.
· While you are using the drug, your doctor is supposed to carry out periodic tests on your blood mineral level and kidneys to monitor how you are progressing or determine whether there are side effects involved. It is also necessary to check your blood pressure on regular basis while on this drug. Thus, you need to ask your doctor how you can perform the check up at home.
· If you suffer from diabetes, Lasix may have some effects on your blood sugar levels, therefore the levels should be monitored and give reports to your doctor. Your diet or diabetes medication required to be adjusted too.
· If you experience prolonged vomiting or diarrhea you need to inform your doctor because this can lead to dehydration.
· You should provide your doctor with your full history to assist him or her decide if Lasix is right for you. Inform your physician if you have gout, diabetes, anemia, hearing problems, hearing problems, lupus, low blood volume and pressure, liver problems and difficult while urinating.
· If you are breastfeeding, you need to note that Lasix passes to the breast milk, so infirm your doctor for more advice.
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