


Generic Name: mannitol

What is mannitol?

Mannitol is a diuretic that is used to reduce swelling and pressure inside the eye or around the brain.

Mannitol is also used to help your body produce more urine. This medicine is used in people with kidney failure, to remove excess water and toxins from the body.

Mannitol is sometimes given so that your body will produce enough urine to be collected and tested. This helps your doctor determine if your kidneys are working properly.

Mannitol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of mannitol?


Tell your caregivers right away if you have:

  • swelling in your hands or lower legs, rapid weight gain;
  • little or no urination;
  • shortness of breath (even while lying down);
  • wheezing, gasping for breath, cough with foamy mucus;
  • chest pain, fast heartbeats;
  • headache, or feeling like you might pass out;
  • a seizure;
  • painful or difficult urination;
  • pain, bruising, irritation, or skin changes where the injection was given;
  • signs of an electrolyte imbalance--increased thirst or urination, confusion, vomiting, constipation, muscle pain or weakness, leg cramps, bone pain, lack of energy, irregular heartbeats, tingly feeling.

Common side effects may include:


What is the most important information I should know about mannitol?

You should not receive mannitol if you have severe kidney disease, lung swelling or congestion, severe heart failure, severe dehydration, bleeding in your brain not caused by surgery, or if your kidneys have already shut down and you are unable to urinate.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving mannitol?

You should not receive mannitol if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

  • severe or long-term kidney disease;
  • swelling or congestion in your lungs;
  • severe heart failure;
  • bleeding in your brain that is not related to surgery;
  • severe dehydration; or

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • kidney disease;
  • heart disease; or
  • an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or sodium in your blood).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

How is mannitol given?


Mannitol must be given slowly, and you may receive the medication around the clock.

You will need frequent medical tests to be sure this medicine is not causing harmful effects. This will also help your doctor determine how long to treat you with mannitol.


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What happens if I miss a dose?

Because you will receive mannitol in a clinical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?


Overdose symptoms may include confusion, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, sweating, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, and fainting.

What should I avoid after receiving mannitol?


What other drugs will affect mannitol?


Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially a diuretic or "water pill."


Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about mannitol.


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Reviewed on 2/6/2020

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