D-mannoseis sometimes used as a dietary supplement to treat or prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.

What Is D-Mannose?

Natural sources of D-mannose

Verywell / Jessica Olah

It’s also produced in the body from glucose, another form of sugar.

D-mannose is also called mannose.

As a supplement, D-mannose comes in the form of capsules and powders.

D-mannose powder

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D-mannose powder is mixed with water or unsweetened juice and taken as a liquid.

A number of small studies have suggested that D-mannose may help keepE.

It should not be used to replace traditional treatment.

Can D-Mannose Replace Antibiotics for a UTI?

It’s important to remember that supplements should not replace traditional medical treatment.

If you think you have a UTI, seek medical advice from a healthcare provider.

It may also be similarly effective to antibiotics for preventive use.

However, larger, high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.

MonaMakela / Getty Images

What Are the Side Effects of D-Mannose?

D-mannose can also potentially affect blood glucose levels in people with diabetes.

Children shouldn’t take D-mannose either.

Is It OK to Take D-Mannose Every Day?

In addition, little is known about the long-term safety of D-mannose taken daily or at any dose.

There are currently no standard guidelines for D-mannose dosages.

Consult your healthcare provider before taking D-mannose to confirm how much you should take.

They can help identify any risks or benefits specific to your health conditions.

Summary

Preliminary studies suggest that D-mannose holds promise as a way to help prevent UTIs.

However, larger, high-quality studies are needed to confirm the findings and the safety of D-mannose supplements.

A pilot study.Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci.

2016;20(13):2920-2925.

Florian Wagenlehner, Horst Lorenz, Oda Ewald, and Peter Gerke.

“Antibiotics (Basel).

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2022;8(8):CD013608.