Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024
Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.
Frudix is an oral diuretic medication that contains Furosemide as the active ingredient. Furosemide is an effective diuretic commonly used for treating fluid retention (oedema) in cats and dogs. It may be prescribed to help treat congestive heart failure, certain types of kidney disease, and lung fluid retention.
Furosemide is a medication that acts as a diuretic, helping to remove excess fluid from your pet's body. It works by stopping the kidneys from reabsorbing sodium and chloride. This prevents water from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream, which leads to more urination and removes excess fluid. It is known for its rapid onset and can lower blood pressure by decreasing blood volume. However, it may also lead to a loss of electrolytes like potassium, so it requires careful monitoring. Furosemide should always be administered under veterinary supervision to ensure correct dosing and monitor for any side effects.
It is important to carefully follow the specific instructions from your veterinarian when administering Frudix to ensure proper dosing and administration. Ensure your pet has access to water at all times while being treated with Frudix.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to their next dose, skip the missed dose and give the next dose as scheduled. Do not double dose.
Overdose:
Contact your veterinarian immediately or the New Zealand National Poisons Centre (http://www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738).
Hypersensitivity: Do not use it in animals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to furosemide.
Electrolyte Imbalance: Avoid use in animals with significant electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hyponatremia) until corrected.
Renal Failure: Avoid using in animals with advanced renal failure, where the drug might not produce diuretic effects and could exacerbate the condition.
Dehydration: Not recommended in animals that are dehydrated, as it can worsen dehydration and affect kidney function.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid or use cautiously in pregnant or lactating animals, as safety in these groups has not been fully established.
While Frudix is generally well-tolerated, all medication may cause side effects. This can include increased urination and thirst, dizziness, and signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance (extreme thirst, reduced urination, and confusion). Other symptoms may involve irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps, seizures and gastrointestinal problems like loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
Store this medication under controlled room temperatures, protected from moisture and light, and out of reach of children and pets.
What is Frudix used for in dogs and cats?
How is Frudix administered to dogs and cats?
What are the common side effects of Frudix in dogs and cats?
What precautions should pet owners take when their pet is on Frudix?
Frudix (Furosemide) is beneficial for managing various health problems in cats and dogs but requires careful veterinary guidance. We hope this article provides a clear understanding of Frudix for your pet. Remember, always seek advice from your veterinarian for any health-related decisions for your pets.