General Drug Information and Indications

Loop diuretic (more potent than furosemide) for CHF, edema, and fluid overload in dogs and cats. Loop diuretic (torsemide). Mechanism: like furosemide, inhibits Na-K-2Cl cotransporter (NKCC2) in thick ascending limb of loop of Henle → potent diuresis. Torsemide is more potent and longer-acting than furosemide (bioavailability ~80% vs. 50%); also blocks aldosterone receptor in collecting duct (additional anti-fibrotic effect). Better oral bioavailability consistency. Key information Loop diuretic (more potent than furosemide). Monitor electrolytes. More predictable oral absorption than furosemide. Store at room temperature.

How to Give this Medication

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. Administer at consistent times. 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 imbalances (hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia). Dehydration, prerenal azotemia. Ototoxicity (less reported than furosemide but possible with high doses). GI: vomiting, diarrhea (oral). Hypercalciuria. Photosensitivity.

Precautions

For animals Monitor electrolytes and hydration. Monitor renal function, hydration status, and urine output. Ototoxicity (less than furosemide but possible with high doses). Drug interaction: aminoglycosides (additive ototoxicity/nephrotoxicity). 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). Loop diuretic — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Loop diuretic overdose causes dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Torsemide dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
TORSEMIDE TAB 5MG5 MGTablet1Commercial
TORSEMIDE 100 MG TABLET100 MGTablet1Commercial

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)