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What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving mannitol (Osmitrol)?

You should not be treated with this medication if you are allergic to mannitol, or have certain conditions. Be sure your doctor knows if you have:

• severe or long-term kidney disease;
• swelling or congestion in your lung;
• bleeding in your brain that is not related to surgery;
• severe dehydration; or
• if your kidneys have already shut down and you are unable to urinate.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Before receiving mannitol, tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether mannitol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not receive this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is mannitol given (Osmitrol)?

Mannitol is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and you may receive the medication around the clock.

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.

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