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Furosemide in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Furosemide

Updated on September 10, 2024

Diuretic medication used to decrease water in the body through urination that has a variety of different uses in veterinary medicine.

Furosemide

Summary

Used For: Diuretic activity used to treat a variety of medical conditions

Brands: Lasix®, Salix®, Disal®

Species: dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, rodents, cattle, horses, birds, reptiles

Drug type: Diuretic

Prescription required: Yes

Pregnancy and lactation: Furosemide may be safe for use in pregnant or lactating animals if used very cautiously.

Side effects: may cause fluid and electrolyte abnormalities; ototoxicity, GI effects, weakness, restlessness

General description

Furosemide is a loop diuretic medication, which is used to decrease the water content in the body by promoting urinary excretion of excess fluid. It is most commonly used in small animals to treat congestive heart failure and pulmonary edema, and in horses to prevent or reduce exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). Furosemide is FDA approved at certain doses in dogs, cats, cattle, and horses. Although commonly used in veterinary medicine, all other uses are off label. [Buy Furosemide now on Petco.](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/brand/furosemide) A prescription from your veterinarian may be needed to purchase.

Uses

In small animals, furosemide is used to treat congestive heart failure, pulmonary edema, hypercalciuric nephropathy, uremia, hyperkalemia (increased potassium), and occasionally for hypertension (high blood pressure). In cattle, furosemide is used for post-parturient udder edema. In race horses, furosemide is used to reduce or prevent epistaxis (nasal bleeding).

How it works

Furosemide increases the kidney’s excretion of electrolytes and water. The blood flow to the kidneys can be altered in some circumstances, which can change the blood pressure within the kidneys. The exact mechanisms of the effects of furosemide have not been fully determined.

Dosage

Dogs: 0.45 – 6 milligrams per kilogram orally every 8 - 48 hours. 1 – 5.5 milligrams per kilogram intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously every 6 - 8 hours. Cats: 0.45-0.9 milligrams per kilogram orally every 8 - 24 hours. 2.75 – 4 milligrams per kilogram intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously every 6 - 8 hours.

Forms

Tablets for oral use in 12.5, 20, 40, 50, & 80 milligram sizes; Oral solution in 10 milligram per milliliter or 40 milligram per 5 milliliter concentrations; Injectable solution in 10 or 50 milligram per milliliter concentrations.

Storage information & handling

Store in a light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature out of the reach of pets and children.

What results can I expect?

Improvement in clinical signs, such as coughing, respiratory distress, and lethargy.

Missed Dosage

If a dose is missed, continue with the next dosage at the scheduled time. Do not give two doses at the same time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdose is not common, but neurologic signs (coma, seizures), lethargy, or cardiovascular collapse may be seen. Seek veterinary attention immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Side effects

*Increased urination *Increased thirst *Electrolyte imbalances *Hearing loss (only noted when used at high doses) *Restlessness *Weakness *Anemia (low red blood cell count) *Leukopenia (low white blood cell count) *Diarrhea *Changes in appetite

Contraindications

*Previous sensitivity to furosemide *Anuric renal disease (lack of urine production) *Use with caution in animals with kidney disease *Use with caution in animals with diabetes mellitus *Use with caution in animals with abnormal liver function *Use with caution in pregnant or lactating animals

Drug interactions

Always consult your veterinarian before using furosemide with any other medication, including vitamins and supplements. ACE inhibitors (i.e. enalapril, benazepril), aminoglycosides (i.e. gentamicin, amikacin, etc.), amphotericin B, cisplatin, corticosteroids, digoxin, insulin, muscle relaxants, probenecid, salicylates, succinylcholine, and theophylline may interact with furosemide.

Precaution

Furosemide is contraindicated in animals not producing urine. It should used with caution in animals with electrolyte imbalances, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, kidney disease, or pregnant or lactating animals.

Sources

Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook

Related Questions

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.