Laxis
Form: Injection
Strength: 20mg/2ml
Generic Name: Frusemide (Furosemide)
Company: Sanofi Bangladesh Ltd.
MRP:৳ 8.0 (Injection)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Laxis is used to treat conditions like high blood pressure, heart failure, fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites) due to liver disease, swelling caused by fluid retention (edema), and high aldosterone levels. Laxis is also used for treating edema caused by secondary hyperaldosteronism.
Pharmacology
Spironolactone (a potassium-sparing diuretic) and Furosemide (a loop diuretic) work differently but together help remove extra fluid. Furosemide works in the kidney by blocking the absorption of sodium, potassium, and chloride, leading to more fluid and sodium being removed. This can lead to potassium loss. Spironolactone helps the body remove sodium while keeping potassium, which reduces the potassium loss caused by Furosemide.
Dosage & Administration
Furosemide 20 and Spironolactone 50 mg: 1 to 4 tablets per day (20 to 80 mg of Furosemide and 50 to 200 mg of Spironolactone), based on the patient’s response.
Furosemide 40 and Spironolactone 50 mg: For patients who need higher doses, take 1 to 2 tablets per day (40 to 80 mg of Furosemide and 50 to 100 mg of Spironolactone).
Use in children: This medicine is not suitable for children. Laxis may be excreted more slowly in elderly patients.
Interaction
Taking this medicine with ACE inhibitors or potassium supplements can increase potassium levels. Laxis can also raise blood levels of digoxin, which may lead to toxicity. Using corticosteroids with this medicine may cause low potassium. The blood pressure-lowering effects of Furosemide may be reduced by anti-inflammatory drugs like indomethacin. Furosemide can also increase the hearing damage risk of some antibiotics. Sucralfate can reduce Furosemide’s effects.
Contraindications
Laxis is not suitable for patients with no urine production, acute kidney problems, severe kidney failure, high potassium levels, Addison’s disease, or hypersensitivity to Spironolactone, Furosemide, or sulfonamides.
Side Effects
Side effects of Spironolactone include headaches, drowsiness, stomach problems like cramps and diarrhea, and confusion. Skin rashes, breast enlargement in men (gynaecomastia), and other hormonal issues like voice changes, hair growth, and menstrual problems may also occur. Blood tests may show changes in kidney function, and too much use can cause dehydration and low blood pressure, especially in elderly patients. Low potassium and magnesium levels can cause heart problems.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Spironolactone can pass through the placenta, so Laxis should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Furosemide can cause fetal problems, so Laxis should only be used when necessary, and effective contraception should be used.
Lactation: Spironolactone and Furosemide are found in breast milk. If you need to use Laxis while breastfeeding, consider alternative feeding methods for your baby.
Precautions & Warnings
Laxis should be used carefully in patients who are at risk for low electrolytes or have conditions like diabetes, an enlarged prostate, low blood pressure, or dehydration.
Overdose Effects
Not available.
Therapeutic Class
Laxis belongs to the group of potassium-sparing diuretics and aldosterone antagonists.
Storage Conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Similar Brands of Frusemide (Furosemide) (Injection – 20mg/2ml)
| Brand Name | Form | Strength | Company | MRP (৳) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frusin | Injection | 20mg/2ml | Opsonin Pharma Limited | 9.0 |
| Fusid | Injection | 20mg/2ml | Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 9.0 |