Lasix effects - beside diuresis

Q: Besides diuresis, describe 2 more effects of furosemide (Lasix)?

Answer: Lasix is a diuretic that acts on the loop of Henle and inhibits the reabsorption of both sodium and chloride ions. Besides this basic function of diuresis

1. Lasix also causes peripheral vasodilation (mostly venodilatation) and an increase in systemic venous capacitance. Obviously, this helps with the CHF patients.

2. Lasix reduces ICP and can be used in conjunction with Mannitol by interfering with the Na transport, which in turn slows the production of CSF fluid from the choroid plexus.

#pharmacology

#hemodynamics

References:

1. de Berrazueta JR, González JP, de Mier I, Poveda JJ, García-Unzueta MT. Vasodilatory action of loop diuretics: a plethysmography study of endothelial function in forearm arteries and dorsal hand veins in hypertensive patients and controls. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 2007 Feb;49(2):90-5. doi: 10.1097/FJC.0b013e31802e3c39. PMID: 17312449.

2. Roberts PA, Pollay M, Engles C, Pendleton B, Reynolds E, Stevens FA. Effect on intracranial pressure of furosemide combined with varying doses and administration rates of mannitol. J Neurosurg. 1987 Mar;66(3):440-6. doi: 10.3171/jns.1987.66.3.0440. PMID: 3102698.

3. Samson D, Beyer CW Jr. Furosemide in the intraoperative reduction of intracranial pressure in the patient with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Neurosurgery. 1982 Feb;10(2):167-9. PMID: 7070614.