Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 7/3/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of furosemide can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of furosemide use include:

• Increased urination
  
• Dizziness
  
• Headache
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Lightheadedness
  
• Stomach upset
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Severe dehydration
  
• Fainting
  
• Electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium or sodium levels)
  
• Kidney problems
  
• Hearing changes or loss
  
• Severe allergic reactions
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking furosemide, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with furosemide. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with furosemide.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Aminoglycoside antibiotics
  
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
  
• Angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARBs)
  
• Aspirin and other salicylates
  
• Barbiturates
  
• Corticosteroids
  
• Platinum-based chemotherapy agents
  
• Immunosuppressants
  
• Cardiac glycosides
  
• Loop diuretics
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  
• Laxatives
  
• Mood stabilizers
  
• Diabetes medications
  
• Antihypertensives
  
• Analgesics
  
• Antimetabolites
  
• Uricosurics
  
• Anticonvulsants
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Heart disease
  
• High blood pressure
  
• Arrhythmia
  
• Liver disease
  
• Kidney disease
  
• An enlarged prostate
  
• Diabetes, gout, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  
• An electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood)
  
• Thyroid disorders
  
• Breathing disorders such as asthma or emphysema
  
• Allergies to sulfa drugs
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using furosemide with your healthcare provider.

Take furosemide exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Furosemide can cause increased urination. Take it earlier in the day to avoid frequent nighttime urination.

Your provider may direct you to follow a specific diet and monitor your fluid intake while taking furosemide.

In case of a furosemide overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, and severe dehydration. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.