Furosemide is a powerful diuretic prescribed for the treatment of fluid build up and swelling in the body as a result of chronic kidney disorder, heart failures, liver problems and nephotic syndrome.

Furosemide is a potent loop diuretic, which blocks the body from absorbing too much salt. The action starts in an hour after an oral administration of the drug and when injected, Furosemide starts to act in just five minutes.

The drug has to be taken only under the guidance of a doctor as the medicine is known to bring down the levels of water, sodium, chloride and other mineral in the body. When taking the drug, you can also experience dehydration. You should also take care that you only take the right amount of the prescription.

Furosemide is prescribed only once and you may not be on a dosage schedule. But if the drug is prescribed on a regular basis, make sure not to miss any doses. If you forget to take any dose, you can take it when you remember it. But do no take it if it is time for your regular dosage. Well, if you suspect of having taken an overdose, inform your doctor immediately. Some of the symptoms of overdose are ringing in the ears, weakness, dizziness and loss of appetite.

Before the doctor prescribes furosemide, you should have to discuss with your doctor all your present and past medical history, which will help him to take a proper decision on the prescription. Inform your physician if you have diabetes, gout, diseases of the hart/liver/kidney, lupus and if you are allergic to sulfa medicines.

Pregnant women and those who hope to get pregnant have to take Furosemide only after discussing with the doctor about the risks and benefits of the drug during pregnancy. It is better to avoid breast-feeding while you are on Furosemide medication as the drug passes into breast milk and may harm the babe.

While you are on Furosemide medication, do not miss any appointments. Your doctor may go for regular tests to monitor your liver and kidney functions to see that the drug is not causing any harm.

Furosemide should not be taken if one has urinating problems. The drug is also sensitive to sun and so better avoid sunlight, sun lamps and tanning booths. Always wear protective clothing when going out.

Just like other medicines, Furosemide also comes with many side effects. Some of the lesser-known side effects are headache, diarrhoea, constipation, dizziness and blurred vision.

While taking the drug, you may also come across serious allergic reactions like hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat and difficulty breathing. If you come across such symptoms, consult the doctor immediately. In case you experience thirst, dry mouth, vomiting, weak, restless, uneven and fast heartbeat, muscle pain, less urine, bleeding and skin rashes, fever, loss of appetite, clay-colored stools and dark urine, you should have to stop Furosemide and immediately contact the doctor.