Products
D-mannose is available as a medical device in many countries and is commercially available as powder and in tablet form from various suppliers.
Structure and properties
The α-D-mannose (C6H12O6, Mr = 180.2 g/mol) is a naturally occurring simple sugar (a monosaccharide), which belongs to the aldohexoses and carbohydrates. It exists as a white powder with a sweet taste, which is easily soluble in water. Mannose is structurally closely related to D-glucose (dextrose) and is produced from it (they are epimers). The starting substance is corn.
Effects
D-mannose is excreted unchanged in the urine and, in the urinary bladder, prevents adhesion (binding) of bacteria to the urothelium by binding to type 1 bacterial pili (FimH). This can prevent invasion and infection. The prophylactic efficacy was demonstrated in a clinical study with 300 female patients (Kranjčec et al., 2014). D-mannose belongs to the group of FimH antagonists.
Indications for use
For prevention and adjunctive treatment of cystitis.
Dosage
According to the package insert. In the clinical study mentioned above, 2 g of D-mannose in 200 ml of water was administered once daily in the evening for prevention. Therapeutic doses are higher. Sufficient fluid should be consumed during treatment.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
Refer to the package insert for complete precautions.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions are not known. It is recommended that other medications be taken at least two hours apart.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include digestive symptoms such as diarrhea.
