Mannitol (MAN-i-tol)

Used in a lung test to help diagnose asthma or other breathing problems. Also used to treat cystic fibrosis.

Brand Name(s):

Aridol Bronchial Challenge Test Kit, Bronchitol

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

• This medicine is used with a special inhaler which will measure the effect of Aridol™ on your lungs. It is given by a doctor or other trained health professional who will be with you during the test. After you have completed the test, your doctor will know the result right away (positive or negative for asthma).
• Aridol™ is a test kit containing one single patient use inhaler and 3 blister packs containing 19 capsules of mannitol for inhalation in marked doses to perform one bronchial challenge test.
• Do not put the capsules in your mouth or swallow them.
• To perform the test:
  • Before doing the bronchial challenge test, your doctor may ask you to perform a breathing or lung test (including spirometry test).
  • A nose clip will then be put on your nose so you will only able to breathe in and out of your mouth.
  • Place 0 mg capsule into the inhaler. Press the side buttons of the inhaler once to puncture the capsule.
  • To inhale this medicine, breathe out fully, trying to get as much air out of the lungs as possible. Put the inhaler just in front of your mouth.
  • Open your mouth and breathe in slowly and deeply (like yawning).
  • Hold your breath for about 5 seconds, then breathe out slowly before removal of the nose clip.
  • You will be asked to repeat the above steps up to 8 times (total of 9 increasing doses of Aridol™). This is to measure the effect of Aridol™ in your lungs.
  • Once you have finished the test, you will be given a short-acting inhaler to help you breathe (for patients who have a positive result).
  • Throw away the inhaler after using.
• Bronchitol®:
  • This medicine should only be used with Bronchitol® inhaler.
  • This medicine is usually taken once in the morning and once in the evening (at least 2 to 3 hours before bedtime). Use an inhaled short-acting bronchodilator, 5 to 15 minutes before every dose of this medicine.
  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • You will be taught how to take this medicine and practice safe hygiene (clean and dry your hands properly). Make sure you understand all instructions before taking this medicine (including loading of capsules and proper inhalation technique).
  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Discard and replace the Bronchitol® inhaler after 7 days of use. If the inhaler needs to be washed, allow it to air dry before next use.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, angina (chest pain), severe cough or coughing up blood (hemoptysis), lung disease or other breathing problems (including upper or lower respiratory tract infection), or a recent surgery of your stomach, chest, or eyes.
• This medicine may cause severe bronchospasm . Tell your doctor right away if you are having a cough or trouble breathing after receiving this medicine. Your doctor will give you a short-acting inhaler right away to treat your symptoms.
• Bronchitol®: Your doctor will perform the Bronchitol® Tolerance Test (BTT) before using this medicine. Do not use this medicine if you failed to pass the BTT.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Chest pain, trouble breathing
• Cough, fever, chills, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and body aches
• Coughing or spitting up blood

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache, dizziness
• Joint pain
• Nausea, vomiting

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088