Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are treatments for dehydration related to various causes. They are beverages made with water, sugar, and electrolytes—mainly potassium and sodium.
Rehydration solutions replenish the body’s fluids and can also manage dehydration related to diarrhea, vomiting, and sweating. Premade oral rehydration solutions can be found at most stores. Homemade oral rehydration solution is not recommended for children but may be considered for adults.
Types of Oral Rehydration Solutions
Oral rehydration solutions are available as prepared solutions or in powdered forms to be added to the appropriate amount of water. As there can be many variations, ask a healthcare provider for a recommendation on which to buy.
Oral rehydration solutions provide electrolytes in addition to water. Sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea can cause electrolytes and water to be lost.
Electrolytes are essential elements the body needs to regulate fluid levels, energy output, brain and motor function, and heart rhythm. They include:
When electrolytes in the body are low or high, you may experience various uncomfortable symptoms. Severely low or high levels can be life-threatening. Fortunately, it is possible to replenish electrolyte levels before they become dangerously low or high.
Premixed Oral Rehydration Solutions
Pedialyte oral solution replaces fluids and electrolytes lost to diarrhea and vomiting. It can also prevent and treat dehydration. Generic versions of Pedialyte, labeled as oral rehydration solutions or pediatric oral rehydration solutions, are also available and contain similar ingredients.
To use an oral rehydration solution to treat dehydration or as a fluid and electrolyte replacement, take it by mouth as directed by the child’s healthcare provider or by following the directions on the product’s labeling.
Powdered Oral Rehydration Solutions
Pediatric oral rehydration solutions are also available in powder form. Mix the product in exactly as much water as directed, stirring until the powder is completely dissolved.
Sugar Content in Oral Rehydration Drinks
Some pediatric oral rehydration drinks may contain sugar, although far less sugar than in sports drinks. Others may be sugar-free or very low in sugar. They can help with rehydration and won’t considerably increase your daily sugar intake unless you consume multiple servings per day.
Higher sugar levels in some sports drinks (used as alternatives to oral rehydration drinks) may slow down rehydration.
Homemade Oral Rehydration Solution Recipe
You can make your own ORS with a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. However, homemade ORS is not recommended for babies or children.
A simple recipe for making a homemade oral rehydration solution includes:
- 4 cups of water
- One-half teaspoon table salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Optional: Crystal Light to taste
The salt in this recipe offers sodium to help with fluid balance, and the sugar and Crystal Light can add taste to the solution. You might consider other options for an oral solution drink, such as chicken broth cubes, chicken or vegetable broth, tomato or cranberry juice, or baby rice cereal.
Safety
Homemade ORS is not recommended for children. It is unknown if ORS made at home can treat dehydration caused by an illness. Over-the-counter ORS is likely a safer options.
Amounts of ORS to Drink
The right amount of ORS will depend on a person’s age. Recommendations are based on how much fluid the body needs. Amounts for children will be much lower than they would be for adults.
When consuming ORS, adults and children can take frequent sips. Alcohol should be avoided.
Children
When giving fluids, you will want to start slowly, offering small amounts often. Nationwide Children’s Hospital recommends using a spoon or syringe to give 1 to 2 tablespoons of fluids every five to 10 minutes for babies under age 1.
For children age 1 and over, give 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 milliliters) every 20 minutes every few hours. You can gradually work up to giving more fluids.
Recommended doses by weight, according to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, are:
- 7 to 10 pounds.: At least 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) per hour
- 11 to 15 pounds: At least 2.5 ounces (5 tablespoons) per hour
- 16 to 20 pounds.: At least 3.5 ounces (7 tablespoons) per hour
- 21 to 40 pounds: At least 6.5 ounces (13 tablespoons) per hour
- 41 to 60 pounds: At least 10 ounces (20 tablespoons, or 1.25 cups) per hour
Adults
Children over 10 years old and adults can rehydrate with oral rehydration solution (ORS) by drinking as much as desired, up to 8.5 cups per day.
If you have concerning symptoms of dehydration, consult a healthcare provider. They can recommend appropriate rehydration methods.
Should Anyone Skip Oral Rehydration Solutions?
There is no reason to rely on ORS if you do not need it. If you or your child is sick and experiencing diarrhea or vomiting, talk to a healthcare provider. Also contact a healthcare provider if you suspect dehydration due to any cause. They help you determine if an ORS is necessary or whether it is safe to rehydrate with water and other fluids.
The need for an ORS will depend on various factors, including your health and age. Oral rehydration solutions may not be for everyone. Talk to a healthcare provider about how to rehydrate if you:
A healthcare provider can determine whether oral rehydration solutions are safe for you based on your unique health situation.
Pedialyte is typically considered safe for children age 1 and up. However, a small number of children may be allergic to some of its ingredients and experience an allergic reaction.
Signs of an allergic reaction may include:
- Hives or a rash
- Itching
- Swelling
- Wheezing or other breathing troubles
If you suspect your child is having an allergic reaction, call 911 or get them to a local emergency room quickly.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Your body functions depend on a balance of fluid and electrolytes. Electrolyte imbalances can result from losing salts in sweat, overhydrating with plain water, and many health conditions. Consult a healthcare provider to ensure you are getting the right treatment if you have symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance, such as:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Headache
- Increased heart rate
- Muscle cramps or muscle weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
Effective ORS Alternatives
If you are a generally healthy adult, you might consider a sports drink after working out, sweating, or being out in the heat for long periods to help replenish fluids and electrolytes.
If desired, adults may use sports drinks to rehydrate when they have diarrheal illnesses. However, sports drinks should not be used as an oral rehydration solution for children.
Sports drinks are often high in sugar or artificial sweeteners. You may want sugar for energy for sustained exertion, such as running, hiking, or cycling for over an hour. You may not want a sugary sports drink to rehydrate for dehydration due to an illness.
For adults, electrolyte drinks also may be prepared using electrolyte tablets, powders, or drops. Mixing these with the correct amount of water is important for appropriate rehydration. These are not a substitute for oral rehydration solutions for babies or children.
Getting the appropriate amount of fluids daily can help prevent dehydration. The National Institutes of Health recommends getting fluids from water and low-calorie beverages, such as coffee, tea, and sparkling or flavored waters.
Additional options include nutritional beverages, such as milk, milk alternatives (rice, almond, soy, etc.), 100% vegetable juices, diluted fruit beverages, coconut water, and clear broth.
Avoid soda, sports drinks, and other sugary beverages. If you are still feeling sick or dehydrated after trying alternative drinks, reach out to a healthcare provider.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Dehydration
Dehydration is a condition in which more fluids leave the body than are taken in. People most at risk for dehydration are infants and children, older adults, people with conditions, and those who work or exercise outdoors.
Signs of dehydration include:
- Amber or dark color urine
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Lack of tears or dry eyes
- Light-headedness or dizziness
- Thirst and dry mouth
If you become severely dehydrated, seek medical attention by calling 911 or going to your local emergency room. Symptoms of severe dehydration include:
- Dizziness with standing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Severe confusion
- Severe fatigue
- Urine retention
- Weak or rapid pulse
Summary
Oral rehydration solutions, made with water, sugar, and electrolytes like sodium and potassium, can treat mild dehydration symptoms and fluid loss from vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating.
You can find ORS drinks at your favorite store. While not recommended for children, adults can make ORS at home. Homemade oral rehydration drinks can be made with water, table salt, and sugar.
If you have had a lot of vomiting or diarrhea or think you or a child may be dehydrated, seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can determine if you need an oral hydration solution, plain water, or another option for treating dehydration.
