General Drug Information and Indications
Furosemide (loop diuretic) for pulmonary edema, CHF, EIPH in horses, and edema/ascites in small animals.
Loop diuretic (furosemide 50 mg/mL injectable). Mechanism: inhibits Na-K-2Cl cotransporter (NKCC2) in thick ascending limb of loop of Henle → rapid, potent diuresis. Also reduces pulmonary blood volume/pressure acutely (pre-race in horses with EIPH). Sulfonamide derivative. Onset IV: 5 min; duration 2–4 hrs. Causes dose-dependent hypokalemia.
Key information
Furosemide injectable. See furosemide entry. Loop diuretic. Monitor electrolytes. Ototoxic with concurrent aminoglycosides.
How to Give this Medication
IV: administer slowly over 1–2 min — rapid injection causes ototoxicity. IM or SQ: inject into large muscle or SQ. Oral (tablets): Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. or without. Horses: IV 4 hrs pre-race per EIPH regulatory requirements (some jurisdictions). Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Never give a double dose.
Side Effects
Electrolyte loss: hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia (monitor electrolytes). Dehydration, prerenal azotemia. Ototoxicity (high-dose or rapid IV). Hypercalciuria. Thiamine depletion. GI: vomiting, anorexia. Horses: reduces exercise performance with excessive diuresis.
Precautions
For animals
Monitor electrolytes (especially potassium). Monitor renal function, hydration status, and urine output. Avoid concurrent aminoglycosides (additive nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity). Horses: excessive diuresis before competition — monitor electrolyte balance. Observe food animal withdrawal times for milk and meat. (some jurisdictions have race-day regulations).
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Furosemide — sulfonamide derivative: inform doctor if sulfa-allergic. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Furosemide overdose causes dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Salix dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SALIX 50ML 5% INJECTABLE | — | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)