Osmotic Diuretics B

These include mannitol and sorbitol which act mainly in the proximal tubules to prevent reabsorption of water. These polyhydric alcohols cannot be absorbed and therefore bind a corresponding volume of water. Since body cells lack transport mechanisms for these substances (structure on p.175), they also cannot be absorbed through the intestinal epithelium and thus need to be given by intravenous infusion. The result of osmotic diuresis is a large volume of dilute urine, as in decompensated diabetes melli-tus. Osmotic diuretics are indicated in the prophylaxis of renal hypovolemic failure, the mobilization of brain edema, and the treatment of acute glaucoma attacks (p. 346). 

Reabsorption of Na+, H20 and many other constituents of primary urine — 

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