Lasix Uses

Lasix is approved to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. As a result, Lasix causes a decrease in blood volume, which can lower blood pressure and also help with water retention. Although Lasix cannot cure these conditions, it can help to decrease the risk of developing problems that can occur with long-term high blood pressure, such as heart disease or congestive heart failure. Some off-label Lasix uses include treating hypercalcemia and water retention due to PMS.

 

An Overview of Lasix Uses

 Lasix® (furosemide) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat a couple of conditions. These specific Lasix uses include:
 
o Kidney disease or kidney failure (renal failure). 
Lasix for High Blood Pressure
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers -- for example: 120/80. The top number is known as the systolic blood pressure, and the bottom number is the diastolic blood pressure. High blood pressure is defined as an average blood pressure higher than 140/90, with multiple blood pressure readings.
 
In clinical studies, Lasix has been shown to significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, Lasix can decrease the risk of developing health problems (such as a stroke, heart disease, or congestive heart failure) that can occur with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure). However, Lasix is not a cure for high blood pressure.
(Lasix Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;