Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Osmitrol

Generic Name: mannitol (Pronunciation: MAN it ol)

• What is mannitol (Osmitrol)?
• What are the possible side effects of mannitol (Osmitrol)?
• What is the most important information I should know about mannitol (Osmitrol)?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving mannitol (Osmitrol)?
• How is mannitol given (Osmitrol)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Osmitrol)?
• What happens if I overdose (Osmitrol)?
• What should I avoid while receiving mannitol (Osmitrol)?
• What other drugs will affect mannitol (Osmitrol)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is mannitol (Osmitrol)?

Mannitol is a diuretic.

Mannitol is used to force urine production in people with acute (sudden) kidney failure. Increased urine production helps prevent the kidneys from shutting down, and also speeds up elimination of certain toxic substances in the body.

Mannitol is also used to reduce swelling and pressure inside the eye or around the brain.

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

What are the possible side effects of mannitol (Osmitrol)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers at once if you have any of the following symptoms. Some of these may be caused by your kidney condition and are not side effects of mannitol:

• dry mouth, increased thirst, blurred vision, or seizure (convulsions);
• swelling, pain, or skin changes where the medicine was injected;
• chest pain, fast heart rate;
• feeling like you might pass out;
• feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
• swelling, rapid weight gain; or
• if you stop urinating.

Less serious side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting;
• runny nose;
• dizziness;
• chills; or
• mild skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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

You should not be treated with this medication if you are allergic to mannitol, or if you have severe or long-term kidney disease, lung swelling or congestion, severe dehydration, bleeding in your brain not caused by surgery, or if your kidneys have already shut down and you are unable to urinate.

To be sure mannitol is helping your condition and not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested often. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with mannitol. Your heart function will also need to be tested.