What is a common side effect of using furosemide?

Furosemide, a loop diuretic commonly used to treat conditions such as heart failure and edema, is well-known to contribute to hyperuricemia as a side effect. This is due to its mechanism of action, which inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the ascending loop of Henle in the kidneys.

As furosemide increases urine production, it can also lead to increased uric acid concentration in the blood due to reduced renal clearance of uric acid. Moreover, the excessive diuresis caused by furosemide treatment can further exacerbate uric acid retention, particularly in patients predisposed to gout. Consequently, monitoring uric acid levels in patients on furosemide is important, particularly in individuals with a history of gout or hyperuricemia.

While it is true that furosemide can lead to other electrolyte imbalances such as hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia, its association with hyperuricemia is particularly notable as a common side effect. This differentiation is crucial when considering the management of patients who are on loop diuretics.