Key takeaways
Furosemide (Lasix) and triamterene/hydrochlorothiazide (Maxzide) are both diuretics, but they work differently and are used for slightly different purposes. Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic that helps you urinate more to get rid of extra water and electrolytes, which can help with swelling and high blood pressure. It's usually taken once or twice a day and starts working within an hour. On the other hand, Maxzide combines two types of diuretics: hydrochlorothiazide, which also makes you urinate more, and triamterene, which helps keep your potassium levels from dropping. Maxzide is typically taken once daily and is a good option if you need to take hydrochlorothiazide but have low potassium levels. Both medications can cause dizziness and make your skin more sensitive to the sun, but Maxzide can also raise your potassium levels, which can be dangerous if you have kidney problems or diabetes. Furosemide (Lasix) is available in both tablet and liquid forms, while Maxzide is available in a fixed-dose combination, making it harder to adjust the doses of the individual components.
