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The Actions of Hypertonic Mannitol Solutions and of Urea Compared

BURTON L. WISE, M.D.; NORMAN CHATER, M.D.

Arch Neurol. 1961;4(2):200-202.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text PDF and any section headings.

In the search for a safe and effective hypertonic solution to lower cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure and decrease brain bulk, many agents have been tested.^1-4 Recently, 30% urea solution has been utilized for this purpose.⁵

Hypertonic solutions of mannitol have been used extensively in animals and humans^6-8 without evidence of toxicity. Mannitol is confined mainly to the extracellular space, is metabolized little if at all, and is excreted fairly rapidly.^9-10 Thus, on theoretical grounds, it appeared that hypertonic mannitol solution, administered intravenously, might be an excellent agent for lowering CSF pressure and reducing brain bulk.

Methods

Dogs were anesthetized by the intravenous administration of sodium pentobarbital (25 mg/kg), and supplemental anesthetic as needed. An endotracheal tube was inserted and attached to a respirator. Respiration was controlled throughout all experiments. A needle in the cisterna magna was connected to a Statham strain gauge manometer, and cerebrospinal fluid . . . [Full Text PDF of this Article]

Author Affiliations
SAN FRANCISCO

From the Division of Neurological Surgery, University of California School of Medicine.

Footnotes
Accepted for publication Oct. 8, 1960.

Supported by a grant from the Committee on Research, Academic Senate, University of California School of Medicine.

The Mannitol was supplied by Clement A. Stone, Ph.D., Associate Director of the Merck Institute for Therapeutic Research, Merck Sharp & Dohme.

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