Method Using previously validated methods, 16 anaesthetised large white pigs were exposed to phosgene (target inhaled dose 0.3 mg kg^-1), established on mechanical ventilation and randomised to treatment with either nebulised furosemide (4 ml of 10 mg.ml^-1 solution) or saline control. Treatments were given at 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 16 and 20 hours post phosgene exposure; the animals were monitored to 24 hours following phosgene exposure.

Results Furosemide treatment had no effect on survival, and had a deleterious effect on PaO₂: FiO₂ ratio between 19 and 24 hours. All other measures investigated were unaffected by treatment.

Conclusion Nebulised furosemide treatment following phosgene induced acute lung injury does not improve survival and worsens PaO₂: FiO₂ ratio. Nebulised furosemide should be avoided following phosgene exposure.