9. Adverse effects (FUROSEMIDE)
Furosemide also can lead to gout caused by hyperuricemia. Hyperglycemia is also a common side
effect. The tendency, as for all loop diuretics, to cause low serum potassium concentration
(hypokalemia) has given rise to combination products, either with potassium or with the potassium-
sparing diuretic amiloride (Co-amilofruse). Other electrolyte abnormalities that can result from
furosemide use include hyponatremia, hypochloremia, hypomagnesemia, and hypocalcemia.
In the treatment of heart
failure, many studies have
shown that the long-term
use of furosemide can
cause varying degrees
of thiamine deficiency,
so thiamine supplementat
ion is also suggested.
Although disputed, it is
considered ototoxic:
"usually with large
intravenous doses and
rapid administration and
in renal impairment".
Other precautions include:
nephrotoxicity,
sulfonamide (sulfa)
allergy, and increases free
thyroid hormone effects
with large doses.
