As a medicine that is used to treat high blood pressure and edema (as a result of kidney disease or kidney failure) in people with diabetes, furosemide (Lasix) is a powerful diuretic. Unfortunately, it may pose serious health concerns along with its benefits. The function of a diuretic is to increase urination, which flushes the body of water along with electrolytes. While this is helpful in the case of water retention and swelling, it may be dangerous for people with diabetes. One of the electrolytes that is flushed from the body is potassium, which diabetics might already be lacking due to frequent urination, a common symptom of diabetes. Potassium is very important in heart, muscle and nerve function, and in maintaining proper fluid balance. The connection between diabetes and furosemide is that people with low potassium are at a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Low potassium can also cause abdominal cramps and bloating, constipation, excessive thirst and frequent urination, low blood pressure and possible fainting, and many other issues, including psychological problems like confusion and psychosis. Of special importance for those with diabetes, furosemide may also cause hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels), which, if left untreated, can cause kidney failure, nerve damage, heart disease and blindness.
Other Furosemide Side Effects and Warnings
Though not specific to diabetes, furosemide may cause other side effects such as numbness, dizziness, blurred vision, weakness, diarrhea, constipation, and muscle pain. Certain medical conditions and drugs may interact with furosemide, so you should speak to your doctor and balance the benefits with the risks. In addition to the issues already mentioned for people with diabetes, furosemide may pose a problem for those with liver or kidney disease, abnormal electrolyte levels, high uric acid levels in the blood, or low blood protein. Those with bladder problems, gout, lupus, or hearing loss should also use caution when considering furosemide, as should women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Furosemide Alternatives: Natural Diuretics
If a doctor prescribes furosemide for high blood pressure, they may also recommend potassium supplements to replenish the body with this important mineral. There are many potassium-rich foods as well, e.g. bananas, oranges, spinach, beets, and avocados. It is also important to drink additional water to counteract the dehydration that may occur. For those with diabetes and furosemide concerns, there are also natural diuretics that offer the same benefits without the risks, such as the Dandelion and Buchu herbs. They have both been proven to help with high blood pressure and water retention. With any diuretic, natural or synthetic, there will be a loss of electrolytes (particularly potassium and sodium) and dehydration, so supplementation and increased water intake are strongly advised.
