Mannitol

• Mannitol

• Osmitrol

Classification:

• Osmotic diuretic

Mechanism of Action:

• A six-carbon sugar compound that has osmotic diuretic properties
• Facilitates the flow of fluid out of the tissues (including the brain) and into interstitial fluid and blood, thereby reducing cerebral edema
• Inhibits sodium and water absorption in the kidneys

Indications:

• Acute cerebral edema
• Blood transfusion reactions

Contraindications:

• Any patient with acute pulmonary edema
• Severe pulmonary congestion
• Hypovolemia

Precautions:

• Rapid administration causes a transitory increase in intravascular volume and can result in CHF
• The dieresis that accompanies mannitol therapy can cause sodium depletion
  •    Can crystallize at low temperature
  •    Should not be administered with whole blood or packed red blood cells because it can damage the RBC’s

Adverse Effects:

• Chills
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Lethargy
• Mental status change
• Chest pain
• Nausea and vomiting

Dose:

• 1.5 to 2 g/kg IV infusion over 30 to 60 minutes (slower rate helps decrease the chances of circulatory overload and CHF) 

• IV

• Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS)