Nkoyosix (Furosemide) 40mg Tablets
Furosemide 40mg is a powerful loop diuretic — a "water pill" — that works directly in the kidneys to flush out excess fluid and salt from the body through urine. It is one of the most widely prescribed medicines for fluid retention (oedema) and high blood pressure, offering fast and effective relief when the body is holding too much water.
Drug class Loop diuretic
Dosage form Tablet · oral
Onset of action Within 1 hour of dose
Duration of effect Approx. 4–6 hours
What is Furosemide 40mg used for?
Oedema (fluid retention)
Reduces swelling in the legs, ankles, abdomen, and lungs caused by heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or kidney disease (including nephrotic syndrome).
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Used alone or alongside other antihypertensive medicines to lower blood pressure and reduce risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage.
Pulmonary oedema
Relieves shortness of breath and fluid accumulation in the lungs — a condition often linked to heart failure.
How to take Furosemide 40mg
For oedema
40mg once in the morning
Maintenance: 20–40mg daily or on alternate days. Max: 80mg/day.
For hypertension
20–40mg twice daily
Your doctor may combine with other blood pressure medicines if needed.
Take with a glass of water. Preferably in the morning to avoid frequent night-time urination. Swallow whole — do not crush.
How it works
Furosemide acts on the loop of Henle — a part of the kidney's filtering unit — blocking the reabsorption of sodium, chloride, and water back into the bloodstream. This triggers a rapid increase in urine output, reducing fluid build-up and lowering blood pressure. It is called a "loop" diuretic because of where in the kidney it works, and it is more potent than thiazide diuretics (like hydrochlorothiazide).
Common side effects
Low potassium is one of the most common concerns — your doctor may monitor your electrolytes or prescribe a supplement.
Important safety information
- Tell your doctor immediately if you experience severe thirst, confusion, muscle weakness, or cramps — these may signal dangerous electrolyte loss
- Avoid if you are allergic to sulfonamide-derived drugs or have no urine output (anuria)
- Use with caution in liver or severe kidney disease — dose adjustment may be needed
- Interacts with ACE inhibitors, aminoglycosides, cisplatin, NSAIDs, lithium, and digoxin — inform your doctor of all medicines you take
- May cause dizziness — do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you
- Avoid excessive sun exposure — furosemide can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight
- Do not stop taking without consulting your doctor — fluid can re-accumulate quickly
- A valid prescription is required to purchase this medication
This information is for general reference only and does not replace the advice of a licensed healthcare professional. Always take Furosemide exactly as prescribed. Store tablets in a well-closed, light-resistant container at 15–30°C away from moisture. A valid prescription is required to purchase this medication. Keep out of reach of children.