Role of D-Mannose in the Prevention of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections: Evidence from a Systematic Review of the Literature

The inexorable rise of antimicrobial resistance reinforces the need for alternative approaches to both treat and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). A potential approach is administration of D-mannose, an inert monosaccharide that is metabolised and excreted in urine and acts by inhibiting bacterial adhesion to the urothelium. We performed a systematic review to assess the effect of D-mannose in the prevention of recurrent UTIs. Of the eight studies reporting on D-mannose in this context, six were clinical and included 695 individuals. Three studies reported that time to UTI recurrence was longer with D-mannose. D-Mannose improved quality of life and significantly reduced recurrent UTIs in both catheter and non-catheter users. D-Mannose was effective in reducing the incidence of recurrent UTIs and prolonging UTI-free periods, which consequently increased quality of life. PATIENT SUMMARY: D-Mannose is a sugar that seems to reduce the incidence of recurrent urinary tract infections and associated bothersome symptoms. It also leads to a longer duration between episodes of recurrences and consequently improves patient quality of life. D-Mannose can be used as a supplementary or alternate treatment for recurrent urinary tract infections.