General Drug Information and Indications

Osmotic diuretic for cerebral edema, increased intracranial pressure, and acute oliguric renal failure in horses and small animals. Osmotic diuretic and free radical scavenger (D-mannitol). Mechanism: freely filtered but not reabsorbed in renal tubules → creates osmotic gradient pulling water into tubular lumen → increased urine flow. Also draws free water from brain parenchyma → reduces cerebral edema and ICP. Secondary free radical scavenging properties. Must be filtered before use (crystallizes). Key information Osmotic diuretic. Store at room temperature — may crystallize; warm before use if crystals present (use in-line filter if crystallization suspected). Do not use if anuric. Monitor serum osmolality and electrolytes. Do not mix with other drugs.

How to Give this Medication

IV infusion: use in-line 5-micron filter to remove crystals. Administer over 15–30 min for acute cerebral edema. Inspect solution for crystals — warm vial in warm water and agitate to dissolve before use. Do not administer if crystals remain after warming. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

Side Effects

Fluid/electrolyte imbalances (hyponatremia, hypokalemia, dehydration with excessive use). Initial transient volume expansion before diuresis. Renal insufficiency (with inadequate urine output). Pulmonary edema risk (volume expansion in cardiac patients). Crystallization (filter before use).

Precautions

For animals Contraindicated in anuric or oliguric patients (must have adequate urine output to excrete mannitol). Avoid in dehydrated patients or those with pulmonary edema. Use crystallizing filter before IV administration. Monitor urine output and electrolytes. Use with caution in pregnant animals. For people handling this medication Administered by veterinary professionals only. No specific human precautions for caregivers beyond normal hygiene. IV administration by veterinary staff only.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Mannitol overdose causes dehydration, hypernatremia, and kidney stress. Managed by veterinary staff.

Mannitol Inj dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
MANNITOL INJ 20%—Injectable1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)