Lasix - Treatments of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)

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Lasix, medically known as furosemide, is a powerful diuretic available by prescription. This medication is commonly used in the treatment of conditions associated with high blood pressure such as pulmonary arterial hypertension, congestive heart failure, edema, kidney disease, and cirrhosis of the liver. It belongs to the class of diuretics named loop diuretics whose actions take place in the kidneys. It works by reducing the absorption of fluid and salt in the kidneys, causing a significant increase in the amount of urine released from the body. The elimination of fluid in the urine helps to lower blood pressure in the body. The medication is effective when used as a singular treatment as well as when it is used along with additional high blood pressure medications.

Lasix is not a cure for high blood pressure. With proper dosing and correct use Lasix can be an effective control mechanism for elevated blood pressure for years. It generally takes a couple of weeks for the individual to receive the full effects of the medication. Patients must continue taking the medication even if they are feeling well, as the condition of the blood can easily revert to its prior state.

There are many side effects associated with taking Lasix. Typical side effects include fever, headache, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. In some cases, side effects affecting the condition of the blood may occur, such as high blood sugar and anemia. Lasix may also cause sensitivity to light, blurred vision, restlessness, vertigo, dizziness, hearing loss, or a ringing in the ears. In rare cases, the medication can cause skin disorders such as rashes, hives, itchiness, flaking, and skin eruptions.

Lasix may decrease the level of potassium in the body, leading to complications including rapid heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, and muscle weakness. The level of potassium can be increased by taking a potassium supplement prescribed by the physician or by eating foods high in potassium like raisins, orange juice, and bananas. Because Lasix is a diuretic, it can cause a depletion of water and electrolytes in the body. If too much of the medication is taken, it can cause all the symptoms of severe dehydration. If an overdose of Lasix is suspected, emergency medical treatment should be sought immediately.

Lasix is considered an extremely strong diuretic and should be used with caution. Using too much of this medication can lead to excessive water loss and mineral wasting. Mineral wasting occurs when mineral vital to the health of the body are secreted out in the urine during the use of diuretics. The minerals may include calcium, iodide, zinc, and magnesium. Mineral wasting increases the number of fatalities in people taking diuretics such as Lasix. If any adverse effects from taking the medication are noted, seek medical treatment right away to avoid potentially deadly complications.

Treatments for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

• Anticoagulants
• Calcium Channel Blockers
• Beraprost (prostacyclin)
• Diuretics
• Flolan (epoprostenol sodium)
• Iloprost (Ventavis)
• Lasix
• Revatio (Viagra, sildenafil citrate)
• Tracleer (Bosentan)
• Remodulin (UT-15, treprostinil sodium
  

Do I have a Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Lawsuit?

The Defective Drug Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus exclusively on the representation of plaintiffs in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH) and Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (IPAH) lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension cases in all 50 states.

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