Reduction of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) and treatment of cerebral edema.
Reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) when it cannot be lowered by other means, including preoperative use before ocular surgery.
Promotion of diuresis in the prevention and treatment of the oliguric phase of acute renal failure, before irreversible renal failure becomes established.

Guideline-supported / adjunct uses

As an adjunct in the treatment of certain drug intoxications/poisonings, to promote urinary excretion of some toxic substances (used together with adequate hydration and monitoring).
As an irrigating solution (in specific concentrations) in transurethral surgical/urologic procedures, to maintain electrical neutrality of the irrigant.

Off-label / less-established uses

Adjunct measure in bowel preparation before certain endoscopic procedures (specific oral preparations only, not the IV formulation) — used off-label and less commonly than standard bowel-prep agents.

Mannitol is not indicated as a general-purpose oral laxative or ordinary diuretic; it is reserved for the specific acute indications above under close medical supervision.

Dosage & Administration of Mannitol

Mannitol is given only as a slow intravenous infusion by, or under the direction of, a physician in a hospital or monitored setting, using an administration set fitted with an in-line filter. Dose and concentration are individualized to the indication, patient weight, fluid status, and response (target urine output and osmolality); see the Dosage section for indication-specific regimens.

Fluid and electrolyte status, renal function, and serum osmolality must be assessed before and monitored during therapy. Solutions of Mannitol 20% and above may crystallize at low temperatures; see Storage Conditions.

Side Effects of Mannitol

Adverse effects of Mannitol are related mainly to fluid and electrolyte shifts and osmotic effects:

Common: thirst, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, chills.
Fluid/electrolyte-related: dehydration, hyponatremia or hypernatremia, hypokalemia or hyperkalemia, circulatory overload, and (rarely) pulmonary edema, especially with high doses or rapid infusion.
Renal: acute kidney injury ("osmotic nephrosis"), particularly with high or repeated doses or in patients with pre-existing renal impairment (see Precautions).
Infusion-site reactions: phlebitis, local pain, or swelling; tissue injury and, rarely, compartment syndrome with extravasation.
Hypersensitivity: uncommon but can include rash, urticaria, and rarely severe reactions such as anaphylaxis.
Cardiovascular: transient changes in blood pressure, chest pain, and rarely arrhythmias related to electrolyte shifts.

Contraindications of Mannitol

Mannitol is contraindicated in patients with:

Known hypersensitivity to Mannitol.
Anuria due to severe renal disease.
Severe pulmonary vascular congestion or frank pulmonary edema.
Severe dehydration or hypovolemia.
Active intracranial bleeding, except during craniotomy.
Progressive heart failure or pulmonary congestion after starting Mannitol therapy.
Progressive renal failure or increasing renal impairment that develops after Mannitol administration has begun (including that due to dehydration).

Frequently Asked Questions about Mannitol

What is Mannitol used for?

Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic given intravenously in hospital settings to reduce dangerously high pressure in the brain (intracranial pressure) or eye (intraocular pressure), and to help maintain urine output in the early stage of acute kidney failure.

Can Mannitol be taken by mouth or at home?

No. The Mannitol described here is a sterile intravenous infusion given only by, or under the direct supervision of, a physician in a hospital or clinical setting; it is not a home or oral medication.

Who should not receive Mannitol?

Mannitol should not be given to patients who are allergic to it, have no urine output due to severe kidney disease (anuria), have severe fluid overload or pulmonary edema, are severely dehydrated, or have active bleeding inside the brain (except during certain brain surgery). Your physician will review your medical history before giving Mannitol.

Is Mannitol safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Data on Mannitol use in pregnancy are limited, and Mannitol crosses the placenta, so it should be used only if clearly needed and if the physician judges the benefit outweighs potential risk to the baby. It is not known if Mannitol passes into breast milk, so a physician should be consulted before use while breastfeeding.

What monitoring is needed while receiving Mannitol?

Because Mannitol can cause significant shifts in body fluid and salts, your care team will monitor your fluid balance, blood electrolytes, kidney function, and urine output closely throughout treatment.

What happens if too much Mannitol is given?

Receiving too much Mannitol or too rapid an infusion can cause dehydration, dangerous salt imbalances, fluid overload, and kidney injury. This is treated as a medical emergency; if overdose is suspected, the infusion is stopped immediately and the patient receives urgent medical care, including contacting emergency services or poison control if needed.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

Mannitol: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Osmosol20%

Acme's Mannitol20%

Mannitol20%

Osmotic20%

About Mannitol

Indications of Mannitol

Established / FDA-approved uses