What is the appropriate route of administration for mannitol?

Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic commonly used in clinical settings to reduce intracranial pressure and promote diuresis in certain conditions such as acute kidney injury or severe edema. The appropriate route of administration for mannitol is intravenously. This method allows for rapid and efficient delivery of the drug into the bloodstream.

When administered intravenously, mannitol exerts its effects immediately, creating an osmotic gradient that draws water out of cells and into the vascular space, thus increasing urine output and reducing fluid buildup in tissues. Oral administration is not suitable because mannitol is poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, which would render it ineffective for its therapeutic purposes. Similarly, subcutaneous and intramuscular routes are not appropriate, as mannitol needs to enter systemic circulation quickly to achieve its desired effects, which is best accomplished through intravenous administration.