Lasix (furosemide) is safe when used correctly and is approved by the FDA for veterinary use. However there are some contraindications and drug interactions associated with the substance.
Contraindications
Dogs with any of the following conditions could be unsuitable for treatment with furosemide:
Chronic heart failure, dehydration, edema, electrolyte deficiency, hyperkalemia, hypertension, nephrocalcinosis, uremia.
Pregnancy: Pregnant dogs should not be given furosemide as the drug has been shown to cause fetal abnormalities.
Drug Interactions
The following substances have been shown to interact with furosemide:
amikacin, amiodarone, arsenic (trioxide), cisapride, dofetilide, dolasetron, dronedarone, droperidol, ethacrynic acid, gentamicin, kanamycin, levomethadyl, lithium, neomycin, netilmicin, pimozide, sodium biphosphate, streptomycin, tizanidine, tobramycin, ziprasidone.
Be aware of mixing furosemide with any other drug with diuretic effects, as this increases the chance of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
I Think I’ve Given Lasix To An Unsuitable Dog!
Lasix is usually safe at unusually high doses if these high amounts aren’t administered continuously over longer period of time. This is in part due to the body’s swift removal of the substance. The oral LD50 is 454 mg/lb whereas the injected LD50 is lower at 136 mg/lb. If you have given an overdose even if not a major one, it’s often best to call the vet for advice. Severe overdoses can lead to serious side effects including circulatory collapse, seizures and coma. Long term high dosage use can lead to scarring of kidney tissue and calcification.
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