IV furosemide (Lasix)
IV furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic used in heart failure patients because heart failure leads to renal retention of sodium and water, which will increase the blood volume and venous pressure, and cause edema formation. Pulmonary edema (caused during left ventricular failure) can be life threatening due to pulmonary oxygen exchange being compromised. Diuretics are used to promote renal loss of sodium and water which reduces chances of vascular congestion and edema.