CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Liz Bode,
Medication: Furosemide
Medication: Furosemide
Your cat has been prescribed furosemide as a diuretic to prevent fluid build-up (edema) associated with heart failure.
Key points:
• Diuretic.
• Do not use in cats suffering from hypovolemia, low blood pressure or dehydration.
• Do not use in cases of kidney failure where no urine is being produced.
• Do not use in cases of electrolyte deficiency, unless directed by your veterinarian.
• Do not use in cases of hypersensitivity to furosemide, sulfonamides or any of the excipients.
• In pregnant and lactating animals, use only according to the benefit/risk assessment by the responsible veterinarian.
• Dosage: twice or three times daily.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Furosemide (fur-os-emide).
Brand name
- Libeo® (Europe & UK).
- Dimazon injection (Europe & UK).
- Furosoral® (Europe & UK).
- Lasix® (US).
- Salix® (US).
- Frusemide® (US).
- Disal® (US).
- Uritol® (US).
Class of drug
- Loop diuretic inhibiting the re-absorption of sodium and water.
Storage
- Store <25°C/<77°F.
- Protect from light.
- Any part-used tablet should be returned to the opened blister and used within 72 hours.
- Do not use after the expiry date.
Why has my cat been prescribed furosemide?
Your veterinarian has prescribed furosemide for the management of conditions including congestive heart failure and hypertension.
How is the medication given?
Furosemide is given either as an injection by your veterinarian or orally as tablets or solution. It may be given with or without food. If vomiting occurs after dosing on an empty stomach, it may be given with food or a treat.
Furosemide acts within 1 hour if given orally and 5-30 minutes if given by injection. The timing of administration can be adjusted to fit in with the owner’s schedule or to avoid extra toilet trips overnight.
Always make sure that your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times while on furosemide.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Furosemide will lead to increased urination and thirst. Diarrhea and constipation are common side-effects. Hypokalemia (low potassium levels) and electrolyte imbalances are also common. Head tilt, anemia, weakness and restlessness may also be seen but are rare. Furosemide may alter insulin requirements in diabetic animals.
Caution should be taken if furosemide is given with the following medications:
- ACE inhibitors and digoxin.
- Theophylline.
- Aminoglycosides.
- Digoxin.
- Aspirin.
- Tubocurarine.
- Suxamethonium.
- NSAIDs.
Always let your veterinarian know if your cat is taking any other medication including any supplements and herbal products.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Furosemide is prescribed for long-term management of edema associated with heart failure.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused furosemide safely – don’t flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not double up a dose. Make sure the dose given doesn’t exceed the total recommended amount in any 24-hour period.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your cat is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Furosemide should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for:
- Do not use in cats suffering from hypovolemia, hypotension or dehydration.
- Do not use in cases of kidney failure with anuria (lack of urine production).
- Do not use in cases of electrolyte deficiency.
- Do not use in cases of hypersensitivity to furosemide, sulfonamides or any of the excipients.
- In pregnant and lactating animals, use only according to the benefit/risk assessment.
- If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally eaten by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on Furosemide?
As furosemide affects fluid and electrolyte balance, cats taking this medication should be monitored for hydration status and electrolyte (potassium, calcium and sodium) levels. Your veterinarian will also want to monitor your cat’s kidney function and blood sugar levels.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on furosemide can be found on the package insert and the following websites:
Europe & UK
- NOAH Compendium. Libeo® chewable tablets: www.noahcompendium.co.uk/?id=-474563
- Veterinary Medicines Directorate. Libeo® chewable tablets: www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/productinformationdatabase/files/QRD_Documents/QRD-Auth_538428.PDF
- Veterinary Medicines Directorate. Furosoral: www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/ProductInformationDatabase/files/QRD_Documents/QRD-Auth_775321.PDF
US/Canada
- Sanofi Aventis Inc. Lasix® oral solution: products.sanofi.ca/en/lasix.pdf
- Merck Animal Health. Salix® tablets. merckusa.cvpservice.com/product/basic/view/1047330
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your cat’s medication.
