Herbs

D-mannose

Also called: mannose

A sugar that may stop bacteria sticking to the bladder.

Why people take it
Preventing urinary tract infections.
What the evidence says
Early studies are promising; more needed.
How it is usually taken
Usually 1 to 2 g once or twice a day dissolved in water.
Be careful
Bloating and diarrhoea; caution with diabetes.
Medicines it can interact with
No important medicine interactions are known, but tell your doctor and pharmacist about every supplement you take.

Other herbs

EchinaceaElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomileLemon balmPassionflowerKavaRhodiolaGinkgoMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicorice

Common questions

What is D-mannose?

A sugar that may stop bacteria sticking to the bladder.

Why do people take D-mannose?

Preventing urinary tract infections.

Does D-mannose work?

Early studies are promising; more needed.

How much D-mannose do people take?

Usually 1 to 2 g once or twice a day dissolved in water.

Is D-mannose safe?

Bloating and diarrhoea; caution with diabetes.

Does D-mannose interact with medicines?

No important medicine interactions are known, but tell your doctor and pharmacist about every supplement you take.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.