Bumex (bumetanide), Lasix (furosemide), and Demadex (torsemide) are called loop diuretics. This means that they help the kidneys to release water and salt into the urine. They are used to treat water retention in the following conditions:
- Congestive Heart Failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump all the blood returned to it by the lungs. Fluid backs up in the lungs and in the veins, and all the way down to the legs and feet. This can result in trouble breathing, a low oxygen level in the blood and even death if untreated.
- Kidney Disease is most often caused by diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), and injury. Early stages can be treated successfully with diuretics.
- Liver Disease can cause scarring, or cirrhosis, so that blood is not permitted to flow freely through the liver. When this happens, fluid can accumulate in the abdomen and lower limbs.
- Other reasons for fluid retention
In addition to water retention, Lasix and Demadex are also used to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure. Bumex can also be used for high blood pressure, but does not have FDA approval for this purpose, and so is considered off label.
Bumex is taken in tablet form from 0.5 mg to 2.0 mg, as a single dose for removing fluid.
Lasix is taken orally in a dose of from 20 to 80 mg as a single dose for removing fluid. It can be continued daily if used for controlling blood pressure.
Demadex is taken orally in a dose of 10 to 20 mg daily initially. The dose can be increased to as high as 200 mg per day as needed.
Did you know? QuickMD can treat your fluid retention or high blood pressure in the comfort and convenience of your own home. Physicians can prescribe Lasix online, or other diuretics—whenever safe to do so.