What is furosemide 40 mg used for?
In the pharmaceutical industry, Furosemide 40 mg is a potent loop diuretic (often referred to as a “water pill”). As a pharmacist, I characterize Furosemide by its rapid onset of action—usually within 30 to 60 minutes when taken orally—making it a first-line treatment for conditions involving fluid overload.
Primary Clinical Uses
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Edema: The primary indication is the treatment of edema (fluid retention) associated with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), renal disease, or hepatic cirrhosis. It helps “flush out” excess fluid that accumulates in the legs, abdomen, or lungs.
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Hypertension: Used as an adjunctive treatment for high blood pressure, particularly in patients who also have impaired renal function or those who do not respond to milder diuretics like Hydrochlorothiazide.
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Acute Renal Failure: Sometimes used in high doses to maintain urine flow in patients with failing kidneys.
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Hypercalcemia: Used in emergency settings to help the kidneys excrete excess calcium from the blood.
Mechanism of Action
Furosemide works in the kidneys, specifically targeting the Thick Ascending Limb of the Loop of Henle.
Inhibition of Electrolyte Reuptake: It blocks the $Na^+/K^+/2Cl^-$ cotransporter system. This prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing sodium, potassium, and chloride back into the bloodstream.
Osmotic Gradient: Because these salts stay in the tubule, they “pull” water with them via osmosis.
Diuresis: This results in a significant increase in the excretion of water and electrolytes, thereby reducing the total volume of fluid circulating in the body and lowering blood pressure.
The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Formulation & Export
From a manufacturing and global trade standpoint, Furosemide 40 mg is a high-volume “Essential Medicine”:
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Photosensitivity: Furosemide is highly sensitive to light and can undergo discoloration (turning yellowish). As a WHO-GMP manufacturer, we ensure the use of opaque PVC or Alu-Alu blister packaging to maintain stability.
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Dissolution Profiling: Furosemide has low water solubility (BCS Class IV). We utilize specific disintegrants and optimized granulation techniques to ensure the 40 mg tablet meets the strict dissolution standards of BP/USP/IP
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Stability for Export: We provide a 36-month shelf life, ensuring the product remains stable during transit to Zone IVb regions (Africa, SE Asia).
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Regulatory & B2B: This product is a staple for hospital tenders and cardiovascular specialty distributors. Our Mumbai facility provides full CTD/eCTD Dossiers to support international registration against the innovator (Lasix).