Furosemide is primarily used to treat fluid retention (edema) and swelling caused by conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver disease (including cirrhosis), kidney disease, and nephrotic syndrome. It helps the body get rid of excess salt and water by increasing urine output through its action on the kidneys
. Additionally, furosemide is used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension), either alone or in combination with other medications. Controlling high blood pressure with furosemide helps reduce the risk of complications such as heart failure, stroke, and kidney damage
. In some cases, furosemide is also used for rapid diuresis in acute conditions like pulmonary edema and severe hypercalcemia, often administered intravenously
. In summary, furosemide is used for:
- Treating edema due to heart failure, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, and nephrotic syndrome
- Managing high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Acute conditions requiring rapid fluid removal, such as pulmonary edema
It is a loop diuretic ("water pill") that increases urine production by inhibiting electrolyte reabsorption in the kidneys
