Mannitol

Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic used to reduce intracranial and intraocular pressure by drawing fluid out through the kidneys.

Structure of Mannitol

• Mannitol is a sugar alcohol with six hydroxyl groups, making it highly hydrophilic and osmotic.
• Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₄O₆

Mode of Action

• Osmotic Gradient Creation: Mannitol remains in the extracellular space, creating an osmotic gradient that pulls water out of cells and into the vascular compartment.
• Increased Urinary Output: Promotes diuresis by preventing water reabsorption in the kidneys.
• Reduction of Intracranial Pressure: Draws fluid out of brain tissue, reducing intracranial pressure.
• Reduction of Intraocular Pressure: Lowers pressure within the eye by promoting aqueous humor excretion.

Uses

• Intracranial Hypertension: Reduces elevated intracranial pressure in conditions like traumatic brain injury and cerebral edema.
• Acute Renal Failure: Helps restore renal function by increasing urine output and reducing edema.
• Glaucoma: Lowers intraocular pressure to prevent optic nerve damage.
• Contrast-Induced Nephropathy Prevention: Used prophylactically to protect kidneys during radiologic procedures involving contrast agents.
• Dehydration: Manages severe dehydration by promoting rapid water excretion.

Thank you for reading from Firsthope's notes, don't forget to check YouTube videos!