What are the effects and functions of mannitol?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been constantly experiencing headaches, eye swelling, nausea, and vomiting. I heard from someone that mannitol can help relieve these symptoms. Can I use it for my condition? What are the effects and uses of mannitol?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Mannitol can rapidly penetrate into brain tissue and reduce intracranial pressure by exerting an osmotic diuretic effect, decreasing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production, and increasing CSF absorption. It is commonly used in the treatment of cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure.
After entering the body, mannitol rapidly increases plasma osmotic pressure, resulting in tissue dehydration, thereby assisting in the treatment of cerebral edema and reduction of intracranial and intraocular pressure. Mannitol enhances the osmotic permeability of renal tubules, accelerating urine production and excretion, preventing renal ischemia, and reducing adverse symptoms such as renal interstitial edema and renal failure.
Mannitol has a certain vasodilatory effect, which helps improve microcirculation, especially in conditions such as burns and shock, where it can aid in improving tissue perfusion. Through its diuretic effect, mannitol helps reduce fluid accumulation in the lungs and alleviate symptoms of pulmonary edema.
Administration of mannitol must be performed cautiously, as it may cause side effects such as electrolyte disturbances and renal dysfunction. Its use should strictly follow appropriate indications and dosage guidelines, with close monitoring of the patient's vital signs and laboratory parameters.
