The EMLc Subcommittee considered that diuretics were essential for use in children in the treatment of ascites, acute or chronic renal failure or acute glomerulonephritis. Nephrotic syndrome oedema responds poorly to diuresis and loop diuretics may be hazardous because patients are often volume depleted despite oedema. The Subcommittee endorsed the inclusion of mannitol on the EMLc but recommended it be listed on the complementary list of the EMLc and be reviewed at the next meeting in light of potential newer diuretic agents.