Furosemide

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Your pet has been prescribed furosemide, a loop diuretic commonly used for the treatment of pulmonary edema secondary to congestive cardiomyopathy.

Adverse effects:

Furosemide may induce fluid and electrolyte abnormalities, especially potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium. Animals that have normal food and water intake are much less likely to develop water and electrolyte imbalances than those that do not.

Pre-renal azotemia is possible if dehydration occurs.

Other effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, hematologic effects (anemia, leukopenia), weakness, and restlessness.

Storage and handling:

Furosemide tablets should be stored in light-resistant, well-closed containers.

Please see the prescription label for dosing information and means of administration.

Always follow the label instructions. Never administer any medication unless prescribed by a veterinarian. Keep out of reach of children.

Plumb, D. C. (2015). Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook, 8^th edition. accessed via Veterinary Information Network; vin.com

Extra-label drug use

Extra-label drug use, also referred to as “off-label use” refers to the use of a drug approved by Health Canada in an animal in a manner not in accordance with the label or package insert with respect to species, indication, dose, duration, and route of administration.

A drug used in an extra-label manner does not have proven safety or efficacy characteristic based on its intended use.

The availability of approved veterinary drugs for the species being treated is always considered before prescribing medication in an extra-label manner.

With the limited approved veterinary drugs, extra-label drug use often involves the use medications made for other species (including humans) in our pets.