Your child's doctor has prescribed Lasix to help your child's heart and lungs. As with any medication, Lasix is very helpful when used correctly, but it can be dangerous if used incorrectly.  This hand-out will answer questions you might have about giving Lasix to your child.

What does Lasix do?

Lasix is a diuretic. It helps the body get rid of extra water and increases the amount of urine your child will pass.  By getting rid of extra fluid, your child's heart and lungs will work better.

How and when do I give Lasix?

Lasix comes as small pills or as a yellow colored liquid.  If your child is old enough and can swallow a pill, he or she will need to take a pill once or twice a day.  Younger children and babies will be given the liquid form of Lasix.  It is slightly sweet and most children like the taste.  Your child's doctor will give you directions on the amount of medicine your child needs.  Lasix is usually given once or twice a day, but sometimes more often.  If your child is taking Lasix once a day, it is best to give it in the morning to avoid more urine from being passed at night.  You should give your child the medicine at the same time each morning and evening (example: 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM).  The liquid medicine comes in a brown-colored bottle with a syringe marked for the correct amount your child needs.  The best way to give Lasix liquid is to squirt it slowly into your child's mouth directly out of the syringe.  Your child can have drinks of formula, water, or juice if needed to wash the Lasix down.  Do not mix the medicine with food or drink.

If your child vomits or spits the medicine out after you have given it, do not give it again.  Wait until the next regular dose is due and give the medicine then.  If you forget to give your child a dose of Lasix and it has been less than two hours since the scheduled time, give the medicine at that time.  Give the next dose at the regular time.  If it has been more than two hours, skip that dose and give the next scheduled dose.

Your child's doctor has figured out the dosage of Lasix for your child based on age and weight.  The doctor can usually tell by examining your child if the dose is correct.  If your child is not getting enough Lasix, he or she won't get rid of enough fluid.  If your child is getting too much Lasix, he or she may not eat well, the mouth may be dry, the skin may be dry and scaly, he or she may be weak, sleepy, or restless, or the eyes may be sunken.  Call your doctor immediately if your child develops any symptoms that concern you.

The doctor has prescribed Lasix because your child's heart and lungs need it.  Your doctor will let you know when your child is well and should stop taking the medication.