What is Lasix in Bodybuilding? Unraveling its Role and Risks

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Bodybuilding aims to create lean muscles just in time for the competition. It means a bodybuilder should shed off fats and reduce water retention. Doing this will keep them in the weight bracket of the competition. Shedding off extra weight is a common practice for bodybuilders, and they do this by getting dehydrated or losing water through frequent urination.

One of the most common solutions they do is to use Lasix or generally called Furosemide. Lasix is a common supplement in the industry that can reduce water weight from the body quickly, sometimes within a few hours.

This article will help you understand the purpose of using Lasix to reduce water weight, how it works, its health risks, and alternatives for safe bodybuilding practices.

Understanding Lasix and Its Mechanism​

Lasix is a prescription-based diuretic, Furosemide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is one of the most essential medications with primary medicinal purposes. It first became famous in Germany in the 1960s, and people from different countries used it as medication to fight edema and high blood pressure.

It works simply by expelling water from the body at a fast rate. Lasix inhibits sodium and potassium, leading to fluid and electrolyte loss. Because of this, it is an essential drug used by patients with impaired kidney function.

Furosemide is usually in oral or injectable form. The administration depends on the needs of the patient. Patients can flush out urine after 20 minutes of taking a tablet. However, those who need a stronger effect may take the injection, but it may also cause more adverse side effects.

Role of Lasix in Bodybuilding​

Its use in bodybuilding became prominent due to its fast-acting effects in removing water from the body. By eliminating water through frequent urination, bodybuilders can achieve the muscle definition they need, leading to a more aesthetically pleasing appearance as they get through the competition. However, bodybuilders may see it as a weight-loss effect, but it is pure fluid and can still significantly change an individual's weight.

Despite its proven effect on fluid loss, it may affect their performance. Lasix eliminates the body's fluid, making an athlete feel drained. Though it is not an issue for bodybuilders, it may cause adverse side effects in the long run.

Bodybuilders usually take Lasix a week before their competition since this is the most crucial period. Some athletes prioritize the visual aspects of their physique. They need to achieve optimal muscle definition before they step up on stage. But this is only a temporary measure to look ripped. Bodybuilders must continue working out to maintain their physique even after the competition.

Risks and Side Effects of Lasix​

As a diuretic, Lasix is a dangerous substance that causes different side effects. The Food and Drug Administration imposed a warning alert about the dangers of the impact on patients. Bodybuilders must take Lasix with proper dosage and administration. The most common side effects a Lasix user may experience are listed below.

Dehydration​

Lasix inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the kidney, which makes an individual produce more uring. As a result, they may lose more fluids than they usually would. Dehydration may lead to light-headedness, sudden drop in blood pressure, and increased thirst. Though hydration compensates for fluid loss, it may not be enough to replace the fluids in the body, especially during physical activities.

Electrolyte Imbalance​

Aside from water, Lasix also contributes to the loss of electrolytes in the body. Potassium, magnesium, calcium, and sodium go with the fluids once they come off in the body. Because of this, an individual may experience hypokalemia, muscle cramps, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat. Electrolyte imbalance may also affect bone health and other physiological processes.

Kidney Damage​

Individuals already suffering from kidney disease may worsen their condition due to Lasix. It reduces renal blood flow, leading to ineffective kidney function. Also, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance may disrupt kidney operations or put more strain on the kidneys.

Cardiovascular Complications​

Changes in blood pressure, specifically hypotension, usually happens when an individual misuse Lasix. The increased fluid loss from the body causes sudden drops in blood pressure, leading to dizziness and fainting. The irregular heart rate may also cause further complications in cardiovascular health.

Sports Ethics and Regulations Related to Lasix Use​

Like most performance-enhancing drugs, the World Anti-Doping Agency listed Furosemide as a prohibited substance in sports. Specifically in bodybuilding, athletes use them to mask the evidence of anabolic steroid use by urinating too much water before testing.

The use of Lasix in bodybuilding causes unfair results since it provides a temporary advantage compared to those who worked hard to achieve their desired muscle definition. Since bodybuilders inspire those who like to enter the industry, they may relay the wrong message and encourage people to use substances to enhance their figure.

The bodybuilding industry encourages athletes to promote healthy and natural processes. With the testing processes, sporting organizations discourage using substances, including Furosemide.

Safe Bodybuilding Practices for Water Retention​

Bodybuilders can still prevent water retention and have better muscle definition. Sodium is the most significant contributor to water retention, so avoiding foods high in salt is better. Instead, bodybuilders should consume fresh fruits and vegetables, whole foods, and lean protein sources.

Balancing hydration and regular exercise will contribute to muscle definition, even without using Lasix. Maintain potassium, magnesium, and sodium intake to regulate the body's fluid. On the other hand, regular exercise produces sweat, a better alternative to losing water in the body, leading to reduced water retention.

Instead of taking Lasix, bodybuilders may take natural diuretics like herbal teas. However, those with medical complications should consult a medical professional, especially those with kidney diseases or cardiovascular issues. It goes the same with bodybuilders. They should be cautious of using Lasix or Furosemide as its effect may lead to poor performance and more adverse side effects that may cause worse problems.

Conclusion​

Lasix or Furosemide is an excellent tool to help bodybuilders prepare their physique if they prepare for a competition. It can make muscles more defined since frequent urination helps release excess fluids on the muscles. However, like other substances, misuse or prolonged use of Lasix may lead to harmful side effects that may affect a bodybuilder's performance.

Frequently Asked Questions​

Where can I buy Lasix?​

You can buy Lasix from pharmacies as long as you have a prescription. It would be best to not buy them from black markets or illegal suppliers since they may have additional ingredients that can increase the health risks.

Why do bodybuilders use Lasix?​

The primary role of Lasix on bodybuilders is how it reduces water retention in the muscles. This diuretic brand may cause frequent urination, leading to a more defined muscle and weight loss.

How much dosage of Lasix should I take to lose fluids?​

In medical use, a medical professional will prescribe the proper dosage of Lasix. But using it in athletics has no specific required dosage. Still, athletes should only take them with the supervision of a medical professional.