Simple sugar and urinary-health supplement

D-mannose (دي مانوز)

D-mannose is a simple sugar sold as a urinary-health supplement and proposed to reduce attachment of some bacteria to the bladder lining. However, a large controlled trial found that it did not prevent recurrent urinary tract infection in women, and it does not treat an active infection or replace an antibiotic when one is needed.

What it is used for

  • A supplement for urinary-tract support, with clear acknowledgement that evidence of benefit is limited and inconclusive
  • An option some people with recurrent urinary infections discuss with a clinician, without treating it as proven treatment or prevention

How it is used

  • Follow the supplement label, ask a pharmacist whether the product suits you and do not exceed the stated amount
  • Swallow capsules with water or dissolve an effervescent or powder presentation fully as the pack directs
  • Check other ingredients such as cranberry, vitamins or sweeteners because they have separate cautions
  • Do not delay urine testing or prescribed treatment when infection symptoms develop

Possible side effects

  • Diarrhoea or loose stools
  • Bloating or wind
  • Nausea or abdominal discomfort
  • Rare rash or allergy

Who should not use it

  • Allergy to D-mannose or any product ingredient

Before and while using it

  • Fever, flank pain, vomiting, blood in urine or feeling very unwell can indicate a kidney infection and needs urgent assessment
  • Burning and frequent urination may be an infection needing testing and treatment; do not rely on the supplement alone
  • Ask a clinician before use if you have kidney disease, diabetes or an inherited disorder of sugar handling
  • Supplement quality and content vary, and combination products may contain ingredients unsuitable for you
  • Lack of proven benefit means you should not stop any prevention or treatment plan prescribed by your clinician

Medicine interactions

  • No specific medicine interactions are well established, but tell a clinician or pharmacist about all medicines and supplements, especially with kidney disease or diabetes

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • Information on concentrated supplements in pregnancy or breastfeeding is inadequate; ask a clinician before use

How to store it

  • Keep the product dry in its original pack as labelled and away from children

Get medical help straight away if

  • Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
  • You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
  • A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Questions about this medicine?

Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.

Source: Standard international medicine references

This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.