Has your doctor prescribed Bronchitol (Mannitol) for you or a loved one with breathing difficulties due to Cystic Fibrosis? So today we will talk in a simple and friendly way about how to use this medicine, what it does, and what we need to be careful about. Read this as if you were talking to a friend.
What is Bronchitol (Mannitol)?
Simply put, Bronchitol is a medicine that comes in the form of a capsule, but is not a medicine that is swallowed, but a medicine that is inhaled as a powder through the mouth using a special device (inhaler). It is mainly used to control lung problems caused by the condition Cystic Fibrosis in adults.
When you have Cystic Fibrosis, the mucus inside your lungs becomes very thick and sticky. This makes it difficult to expel the mucus, and it also makes it difficult to breathe. That's when this Mannitol medicine helps. When the powder of this medicine goes into your lungs, it draws the surrounding water into your lungs. Then, the thick mucus becomes liquefied and can be easily coughed up. When your lungs are cleansed in this way, breathing becomes a little easier.
The most important thing to remember: This medication will not completely cure Cystic Fibrosis. However, it can help control symptoms, keep your lungs functioning properly, and make daily life easier.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
For your safety, you should definitely tell your doctor if any of the following apply to you before starting this medication.
- If you have a habit of coughing up blood .
- If you have previously had an allergy to Mannitol, any other medicine, food, or dyes.
- If you are pregnant or are hoping to become pregnant in the near future.
- If you are a nursing mother.
Giving this information to your doctor will help him provide you with the most appropriate and safest treatment.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is the most important part. To get the most out of the medicine, you need to use it correctly.
1. Do not swallow: This is something that needs to be said again and again. Even though this medicine is in a capsule, never swallow it with water . It should only be used by putting it in the special inhaler device that comes with it and inhaling deeply through your mouth.
2. Use a 'Quick-Relief' inhaler beforehand: This is essential. Some people may experience wheezing when inhaling Mannitol. To prevent this, use a quick-relief inhaler (such as Salbutamol) prescribed by your doctor, 5 to 15 minutes before taking Mannitol.
3. Take it on time: Try to take your medicine at the same time every day. This will help keep the levels of the medicine in your body consistent.
4. Read the instructions: Read the INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE that comes with the medicine carefully. Follow the steps exactly. If you are not sure about something, don't be shy and ask your doctor.
What if I overdose?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, don't panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss a medication appointment?
Don't worry. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (e.g., it is only a few hours away), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
What side effects should you be aware of?
Like any medication, this one can have some side effects. Some of these can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them.
| Type of side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| If you have these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic Reactions | Symptoms such as skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. |
| Bleeding when coughing | Bleeding mixed with mucus or dark red. |
| Severe difficulty breathing | If breathing becomes very difficult or wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing) increases after using the medicine. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, sore throat, chest pain, etc. |
| If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. | |
| Mouth or throat discomfort | Mild pain, burning, or dryness in the mouth or throat. |
| Other features | Joint pain, nausea, vomiting, bacteria in the mucus. |
How do you store medicine and equipment?
- Storage: Keep the medicine box at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius). Never store it in the fridge or freezer. Also, if the temperature is above 30 degrees Celsius, do not use the medicine and throw it away.
- Safety: Keep in a safe place out of reach of children and pets.
- Inhaler device: This is very important. After 7 days of use, be sure to throw away the inhaler device and get a new one. Do not continue to use the same device.
Stay in touch with your doctor to see if your symptoms are improving or getting worse. Don't be afraid to ask any questions you have.
Take-Home Message
- Bronchitol (Mannitol) is an inhaled medication for Cystic Fibrosis. Do not swallow the capsules.
- Be sure to use your quick-relief inhaler 5-15 minutes before using Bronchitol.
- If you cough up blood, have severe difficulty breathing, or develop allergic symptoms (such as swelling of the face/lips), tell your doctor immediately or go to a hospital.
- If you suspect an overdose, go to the National Poisons Information Center or the nearest hospital ETU .
- Throw away the inhaler after 7 days and use a new one.
- Your medicine is yours alone. Never share it with others.
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