Compare the Diuretic Effect With Furosemide vs Furosemide and Albumin Combined in Cirrhotic Patients

The purpose of this single center, prospective study is to compare the efficacy of two strategies for diuresis in patients with cirrhosis, the use of furosemide (Lasix®) alone versus the combination of furosemide (Lasix ®) and albumin (25%). The investigators will perform a single-center, prospective study with data collected as result of standard of care at Rush University Medical Center (RUMC). Patients who are 18 years of age and older, have diagnosed cirrhosis, and present to RUMC with fluid retention will be identified by the Hepatology and/or Surgery attending and be screened for inclusion in the study. Each patient will be randomized into one of the two cohorts and will have 50% chance of being placed into either cohort. Cohort 1 will receive furosemide (Lasix) 40 to 80 mg intravenous push (IVP) twice a day (BID) for at least 48 hours and cohort 2 will receive combination of furosemide (Lasix) 40 to 80 mg IVP BID and albumin (25%) 12.5 grams BID for at least 48 hours.