provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Furosemide Coupon - Furosemide 20mg tablet

furosemide

Generic Lasix
Used for Edema, Heart Failure, Hypertension, Cirrhosis
Used for Edema, Heart Failure, Hypertension, Cirrhosis

Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic, a type of water pill. Furosemide (Lasix) is used to relieve swelling from extra fluids in children and adults. This medication can also lower blood pressure, though it's not a first-choice option for this condition. Furosemide (Lasix) comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. It's also available as an oral solution for people who've trouble swallowing tablets. Furosemide (Lasix) will cause you to urinate more often as a side effect, so it's best to not take this medication too close to bedtime.

Last reviewed on February 27, 2024
basics-icon

What is Furosemide (Lasix)?

What is Furosemide (Lasix) used for?

How Furosemide (Lasix) works

Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic (water pill) that makes you urinate more. It works in the kidneys to get rid of extra water and electrolytes (like sodium and potassium), which helps ease swelling and lowers blood pressure.

Are you looking for information on torsemide or Furoscix (furosemide) instead?
When does Furosemide (Lasix) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsLasix
Drug ClassDiuretic (water pill)
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Furosemide (Lasix) essentials

coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$10.28(save 82.49%)
GoodRx discount
$1.80
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Furosemide (Lasix)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Urinating more often
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Feeling off balance when you get up suddenly
  • Skin sensitive to the sun

Other Side Effects

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Rash
  • Ringing in the ears

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance: dry mouth, extreme thirst, weakness, low energy, drowsiness, muscle pain or cramps, fast heart beat, nausea, vomiting, not making urine
  • Serious skin reaction: painful blisters, peeling skin, rash
  • Severe allergic reaction: feeling lightheaded, dizziness, trouble breathing, throat closing up, swollen face, hives, nausea, vomiting, itching
When do Furosemide (Lasix) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Urinating more often
Dizziness
Headache
Feeling off balance when you get up suddenly
Skin sensitive to the sun
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Dehydration—increased thirst, dry mouth, feeling faint or lightheaded, headache, dark yellow or brown urine
  • Hearing loss, ringing in ears
  • High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)—increased thirst or amount of urine, unusual weakness or fatigue, blurry vision
  • Low blood pressure—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, blurry vision
  • Low potassium level—muscle pain or cramps, unusual weakness or fatigue, fast or irregular heartbeat, constipation

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Furosemide (Lasix)

thumbs-up

Pros

Starts working within an hour after you take it

Available in liquid form for children or people who have trouble swallowing pills

Available as a lower-cost generic medication

thumbs-down

Cons

Not a good choice for people with a sulfa allergy

Might cause you to urinate in the middle of the night if you take it later in the day

Can make you more dizzy and raise your risk for falling down

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Furosemide (Lasix)

pharmacist
  • Avoid taking furosemide (Lasix) before bed so that you don't have to get up to urinate in the middle of the night. Try to take your dose in the morning or by the early afternoon.

    • Furosemide (Lasix) can cause dizziness in the first few days after you start it or after raising the dose. Take your time standing up to avoid dizziness or fainting from low blood pressure.

      • When you're taking furosemide (Lasix), your healthcare professional (HCP) might tell you to weigh yourself regularly to see how much fluid you're losing. They might change your dose of furosemide (Lasix), depending on how your body responds. Call your HCP if you have questions about your dose.

        • Furosemide (Lasix) can cause you to lose potassium. This can lead to muscle cramps, nausea, or vomiting. If your potassium level is low, your HCP might prescribe you potassium supplements. Make sure to tell your HCP all the medications and supplements that you're taking and get blood draws regularly so they can monitor your potassium levels.

          • Furosemide (Lasix) might raise your blood sugar levels. If you already have high blood sugar, your HCP might ask you to check your blood sugar levels more often. Let your healthcare team know if you notice a change from your usual numbers.

            • If you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, let your HCP know. It isn't known if furosemide (Lasix) is safe to take during pregnancy. While there haven't been enough studies in humans, animal studies have shown it can cause harm to mothers and unborn babies when taken during pregnancy.

              • Taking furosemide (Lasix) can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which can cause you to burn more easily. Try to avoid tanning beds or spending a long time in direct sunlight. If you go outside, make sure to wear sunscreen, even when it's cloudy out. You can also wear longsleeves, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin.

                • If you're taking the oral solution, make sure to measure your dose with the measuring device given to you at the pharmacy. Don't use household spoons because this could cause you to take the wrong dose.

                  More on Furosemide (Lasix) tips

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Furosemide (Lasix)

                  How long does it take for furosemide (Lasix) to work?
                  Your kidneys will start making more urine within 1 hour of you taking furosemide (Lasix). You'll continue to feel its effects for about the next 8 hours. Tell your HCP if you don't notice more urine after taking furosemide (Lasix) since this might mean that the medication isn't working well for you or that you need a higher dose.
                  When should I take furosemide (Lasix)?
                  Ask your HCP when you should take furosemide (Lasix). Typically, it's best to take furosemide (Lasix) in the morning or by the early afternoon. The effects of this medication last for about 8 hours. If you take it too close to bedtime, furosemide (Lasix) can cause you to urinate more often in the middle of the night.
                  How much water should I drink while taking water pills like furosemide (Lasix)?
                  Ask your healthcare professional (HCP) about how much water you should drink before you start furosemide (Lasix). People who take furosemide (Lasix) might be at higher risk for dehydration because they're urinating more often. It's important to drink enough fluids to stay hydrated. But the exact amount you need to drink can depend on your medical condition or what activities you're doing. For example, you might need to drink more water in hot weather or during exercise to stay hydrated. Talk with your HCP if you've more questions about how much fluids you need to stay health and how to tell if you body has too much or too little fluid.
                  What foods to avoid when taking furosemide (Lasix)?
                  Ask your HCP whether or not you need to make changes to your diet when you start taking furosemide (Lasix). They might recommend you eat a low-salt diet to avoid eating too much salt. This is because eating foods with higher salt content can cause your body to hold on to more fluid. This can make worsen certain medical conditions, like heart failure and high blood pressure.
                  Is furosemide (Lasix) bad for your kidneys?
                  Your primary care provider can talk with you about the risks and benefits of taking furosemide (Lasix) if you've kidney problems. Sometimes, furosemide (Lasix) is prescribed for people with kidney problems to ease swelling. But there's a risk that furosemide (Lasix) can lead to kidney injury because it makes your kidneys work harder to make more urine. This risk is greater in older people or in people who take higher doses of furosemide (Lasix). Let your HCP know if you've specific questions about furosemide (Lasix) and its effects on your kidneys.
                  Does furosemide (Lasix) lower blood pressure?
                  Yes, furosemide (Lasix) is FDA-approved to lower blood pressure. But it's not a first-choice medication for this condition. If you've high blood pressure, your healthcare team might add furosemide (Lasix) if your blood pressure isn't well-controlled on a first-choice medication.
                  Will furosemide (Lasix) help with swollen legs?
                  Since furosemide (Lasix) lowers swelling by getting rid of fluids through urine, it might help with swollen legs if your swelling is caused by extra fluid in the body. But furosemide (Lasix) probably won't work if your leg swelling is caused by other reasons, such as an infection or blood clot. If your legs are swollen, let your healthcare team know so they can find out the reason for the swelling and recommend appropriate treatment options.
                  GoodRxEducationalIcon

                  How to save using GoodRx

                  Compare Prices
                  1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                  Select your free coupon
                  2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                  Show coupon to your pharmacist
                  3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                  Get free couponLearn more
                  warings-icon

                  What are the risks and warnings for Furosemide (Lasix)?

                  Furosemide (Lasix) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

                  • Risk factors: Older adults | Taking higher doses of furosemide (Lasix) | Liver problems | Not enough salt or electrolytes in your diet | Taking other medications that interact with furosemide (Lasix)

                    Furosemide (Lasix) is a very strong water pill. Taking too much of it can lead to serious dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can be life-threatening. Your risk is higher if you're taking other medications, such as laxatives (taking it regularly for a long time) or corticosteroids. Your healthcare professional (HCP) will adjust your dose based on your needs. Take furosemide (Lasix) exactly as prescribed and make sure to attend your follow-up appointments and get lab draws regularly. Get medical help right away if you notice symptoms such as dry mouth, thirst, weakness, drowsiness, muscle cramps, fast heart rate, nausea, and vomiting.

                    risk-warning

                    Caution in people with liver problems

                    People who have liver problems are more likely to have severe fluid or electrolyte imbalances, especially when first starting on furosemide (Lasix). Your HCP might start you on furosemide (Lasix) in the hospital where you can have closer monitoring. You might also be prescribed potassium supplements or other medications to prevent electrolyte imbalance.

                    risk-warning

                    Hearing problems

                    • Risk factors: Current kidney problems | Taking higher than recommended dose of furosemide (Lasix) | Taking other medicines that cause hearing problems

                      Furosemide (Lasix) can cause ringing in the ears or even loss of hearing. This is usually more of a problem when you get furosemide (Lasix) injections in the hospital, but it can also happen when you're taking the pills at high doses. Take furosemide (Lasix) exactly as prescribed and make sure to follow up with your HCP and get lab draws regularly. Let your healthcare team know right away if you notice any new problems with your hearing.

                      risk-warning

                      Problems with urination

                      • Risk factors: Difficulty emptying bladder | Enlarged prostate

                        Furosemide (Lasix) makes you urinate more. If you already have a hard time emptying your bladder, this can cause urine to get backed up in your bladder and lead to complications, such as infections and kidney problems. Your HCP will monitor you more closely, especially when you first start furosemide (Lasix) to make sure you're taking a safe dose.

                        risk-warning

                        Allergic reaction

                        • Risk factors: Sulfa allergies

                          If you have allergies to other sulfa-containing medications, you might experience similar reactions with furosemide (Lasix). Make sure your healthcare team knows about all of your medication allergies, especially if they were severe. Stop taking furosemide (Lasix) and seek medical attention if you notice a rash or other signs of allergic reaction.

                          risk-warning

                          Gout

                          • Risk factors: Personal or family history of gout | Existing kidney problems

                            Though rare, furosemide (Lasix) can raise uric acid levels in your body and cause or worsen gout. If you've had gout attacks before or you have problems with your kidneys, your risk is higher. Talk to your HCP right away if you notice that your joints are swollen, red, and painful.

                            dosage

                            Furosemide (Lasix) dosage forms

                            The average cost for 30 tablets of 20mg of Furosemide (Lasix) is $1.80 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 82.49% off the average retail price of $10.28.
                            bottle of oral solution
                            Bottle of oral solution
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            60ml of 10mg/ml1 bottle$6.54$6.54
                            120ml of 10mg/ml1 bottle$10.58$10.58
                            ml of oral solution
                            Ml of oral solution
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            40mg/5ml40 ml$5.91$0.15
                            tablet
                            Tablet
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            20mg30 tablets$1.80$0.06
                            40mg90 tablets$6.30$0.07
                            80mg90 tablets$10.00$0.11

                            Typical dosing for Furosemide (Lasix)

                            The dosing below are for both furosemide (Lasix) tablets and oral solution.

                            Swelling

                            • Adults: The typical starting dose ranges from 20 mg to 80 mg by mouth once. Your healthcare professional (HCP) will adjust your dose depending on how your body responds to this medication. Once your HCP finds a dose that works, you typically take furosemide (Lasix) once or twice daily.

                            • Children: Your child's pediatrician will determine the dose for your child based on their body weight. The typical starting dose is to take 2 mg/kg by mouth once. Your child's pediatrician will adjust their dose based on their body's response. The maximum recommended dose is 6 mg/kg.

                            High blood pressure

                            • Adults: The typical starting dose is 40 mg by mouth twice daily. Your HCP will adjust your dose as needed.

                            Furosemide (Lasix) is also available in an injectable form that's given by healthcare professionals in a hospital setting.

                            More on Furosemide (Lasix) dosage forms

                            drug-cost

                            How much does Furosemide (Lasix) cost?

                            To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
                            contraindications-icon

                            Furosemide (Lasix) contraindications

                            Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Furosemide (Lasix) will not be safe for you to take.
                            • People whose kidneys can't make urine

                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Furosemide (Lasix)?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Furosemide (Lasix). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            Furosemide (Lasix)
                            Used for:
                            $1.80 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Used for:
                            • Swelling (edema) due to congestive heart failure, liver problems, or kidney problems

                            $14.11 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Used for:
                            • Swelling due to heart failure or kidney disease

                            • Swelling due to liver disease (taken with other medications) - generic furosemide (Lasix) only

                            • High blood pressure - generic furosemide (Lasix) only

                            $9.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            latest news

                            What is the latest news about Furosemide (Lasix)?

                            images

                            Furosemide (Lasix) images

                            White Round 54 840 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "54 840".White Round 54 840 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Round M 2 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "M 2".White Round M 2 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Round Gg 21 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Gg 21".White Round Gg 21 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Oval 3169 And V - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "V" And "3169".White Oval 3169 And V - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Oval 3169 And V - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "V" And "3169".White Oval 3169 And V - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Round Re 22 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Re 22".White Round Re 22 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Round 174 And Ce - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "174" And "Ce".White Round 174 And Ce - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Oval 16 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "16".White Oval 16 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Oval 16 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "16".White Oval 16 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Round Ep 116 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Ep 116".White Round Ep 116 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Round Re 22 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Re 22".White Round Re 22 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            White Round Re 22 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet
                            This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Re 22".White Round Re 22 - Furosemide 20mg Tablet

                            Get savings updates for Furosemide (Lasix)

                            Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Furosemide (Lasix) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                            By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                            References

                            Best studies we found

                            Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. (2023). Furosemide tablet; furosemide solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            Hospira, Inc. (2023). Furosemide injection, solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            Johansson, P., et al. (2016). Fluid restriction in patients with heart failure: How should we think? European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing.

                            View All References (5)

                            Kowalska, J., et al. (2021). Drug-induced photosensitivity–From light and chemistry to biological reactions and clinical symptoms. Pharmaceuticals.

                            Leading Pharma, LC. (2022). Furosemide- furosemide tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            Precision Dose Inc. (2022). Furosemide solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            Selius, B. A., et al. (2008). Urinary retention in adults: Diagnosis and initial management. American Family Physician.

                            Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2023). Lasix- furosemide tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                            Was this page helpful?

                            Browse medications

                            View All

                            Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.