What is the main adverse effect associated with Furosemide?

Furosemide, a potent loop diuretic, primarily works by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the ascending loop of Henle in the kidneys, leading to increased urine output. One of the significant adverse effects of this class of medication is hypokalemia, which refers to low potassium levels in the blood.

When Furosemide promotes diuresis, it can lead to the loss of not only sodium and chloride but also potassium. This is because as the kidneys excrete more sodium, there is often a concurrent loss of potassium, which can lead to hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can result in various symptoms, including muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, and arrhythmias. Monitoring potassium levels in patients taking Furosemide is crucial to prevent these adverse outcomes.

In contrast, hyperkalemia is an increase in potassium levels, which is typically associated with certain other medications such as potassium-sparing diuretics or medications that affect kidney function in a way that retains potassium. Similarly, hypertension is not an adverse effect of Furosemide; instead, the drug is used to treat elevated blood pressure. Weight gain is also not a common adverse effect of Furosemide; in fact, weight loss