Mannitol
Mannitol (brand name, Osmitrol) is a natural substance that causes osmosis and diuresis, which results in loss of body water. Mannitol acts on the kidneys by causing an increase in filtration and preventing water reabsorption in the kidney tubules. It was approved for use by the FDA in 1964 and is currently among the World Health Organization's list of important medications.
Part 1: What Is Mannitol Used for?
Mannitol is a diuretic, or a drug that increases your urine output. It is often used to prevent or treat excess water accumulation in the body, which may occur in kidney disease, brain swelling, or increases eye (intraocular) pressure. It increases fluid excretion through the kidneys and helps reduce pressure in your brain or
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Part 2: Mannitol Dosage
Mannitol injections are usually administered in hospitals, doctor's offices, or clinics. Mannitol dosage differs for its various uses and indications:
Adult Mannitol Dose
• Cerebral Edema – for reducing intracranial pressure:
1.5 to 2 g/kg body weight, IV infusion over 30 to 60 minutes
• Intraocular Pressure – for reducing pressure inside the eye:
1.5 to 2 g/kg body weight, as 15% to 25% solution, IV infusion over 30 to 60 minutes
• Anuria/Oliguria – to increase urine output and prevent acute renal failure
Test dose: 200 mg/kg IV infusion, over 3 to 5 minutes
Loading mannitol dose: 500-1000 mg/kg body weight (1 dose)
Maintenance mannitol dose: 250-500 mg/kg body weight, every 4-6 hours
• Adjunct treatment for intoxication:
5% to 25% solution, as long as patient has high urinary
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Avoid driving or performing other heavy tasks when using mannitol.
• Report to your doctor any experience of difficulty urinating or extreme dizziness.
• Keep all doctor appointments. Lab tests such as blood counts, blood electrolytes, kidney function tests, lung function tests, and heart function tests may be required to monitor for progress and side effects.
• Use of mannitol in ELDERLY individuals must be done with caution since they may experience more side effects.
• The effectiveness and safety of mannitol in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and young children (<12 years old) have not been confirmed. Talk to your healthcare provider about the use of mannitol in these patients.
Proper storage:
Mannitol is stored by health care providers and hospitals. If it is being used at home, store it as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Always keep it out of children’s