Loop diuretics and bone
Also called: furosemide bone loss, Lasix calcium loss
What it means
Loop diuretics are water pills, like furosemide, that help the body get rid of excess fluid. A side effect is that they also cause the kidneys to flush out more calcium along with the fluid, which over time may affect bone.
If you take a loop diuretic long-term, extra calcium loss through urine could contribute to lower bone density over time.
Loop diuretics, such as furosemide (Lasix), are medications commonly used to treat conditions like heart failure, high blood pressure, or fluid retention. They work on the kidneys to increase urine output, which helps remove excess salt and water from the body.
One effect of this process is that loop diuretics also increase the amount of calcium excreted in urine, unlike thiazide diuretics, which tend to conserve calcium. Over months to years, this extra calcium loss can, in some people, contribute to lower bone mineral density if calcium intake or absorption doesn't keep pace.
This doesn't mean everyone on a loop diuretic will develop bone problems. Risk depends on dose, duration, age, kidney function, and overall calcium and vitamin D status. Anyone concerned about bone health while taking these medications should discuss it with their prescriber rather than changing their medication on their own.
Loop diuretics flush out extra calcium along with fluid, which over time may lower bone density.
Where this leads
WordLoop diuretics cause calcium loss through urine. Curious about a different water pill that actually helps your body hold onto calcium instead?
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Education only, not medical advice. Decisions about tests, medications and treatment belong with your own doctor. OsteoStrong does not diagnose, treat or cure any disease.
