The Oxidation of Mannitol.

Abstract

Radioactive mannitol was administered to rats. When given orally, about 50% of the mannitol C is recovered in the expired CO2 in 12 hrs. With intraperit. injn., the mannitol is largely recovered in the urine with only 2-3% of its C in the expired CO2- By injn. directly into the portal system via the spleen, oxidation comparable to or greater than that obtained by oral admn. is obtained. Hence mannitol can be oxidized by the body if it is administered by a route that makes it first available to the liver.