What is the proper way to take Hydralyte (oral rehydration solution)?

From the Guidelines

To take Hydralyte properly, it is recommended to follow the guidelines for oral rehydration solution (ORS) therapy, which suggests administering 50–100 mL/kg over 3–4 hours for infants and children, and 2–4 L for adolescents and adults (≥30 kg) with mild to moderate dehydration 1.

Key Considerations

• The solution should be mixed according to the package instructions, typically one sachet or tablet dissolved in the recommended amount of water.
• For adults and children over 12, consume about 200mL after each loose bowel movement or vomiting episode, while children 1-12 years should take 100mL, and infants under 1 year need 50mL per episode, as a general guideline.
• It is crucial to continue taking Hydralyte until symptoms resolve, usually 24-48 hours, and to never mix it with other liquids besides water to maintain the correct electrolyte balance.
• Refrigerate any unused solution and discard after 24 hours.

Mechanism and Benefits

• Hydralyte works by replacing essential electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride) and providing glucose to help the body absorb these electrolytes efficiently, addressing dehydration caused by diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating.
• The use of oral rehydration solutions like Hydralyte has been credited with saving millions of lives in the management of dehydration in all age groups, regardless of the cause, and is recommended by the WHO as the first line of rehydration 1.

Important Notes

• If symptoms persist beyond 24-48 hours or worsen, it is essential to seek medical attention.
• In cases of severe dehydration, intravenous rehydration may be necessary, and the decision should be made based on clinical judgment and guidelines 1.
• Breastfed infants should continue nursing throughout the illness, and after rehydration is complete, maintenance fluids should be resumed along with an age-appropriate normal diet offered every 3–4 hours 1.

From the Research

Proper Way to Take Hydralyte

To take Hydralyte, an oral rehydration solution, properly, consider the following steps:

• Start by assessing the level of dehydration to determine the appropriate amount of Hydralyte to administer 2.
• Use the solution as directed, usually after the onset of diarrhea, to prevent or correct dehydration 3, 4.
• If vomiting occurs, wait 10 minutes and then continue administering the solution in small sips at short intervals 3.
• Avoid using antiemetics, as they can interfere with the continuation of oral rehydration therapy 3.
• For diarrheal illness, a glucose-containing reduced osmolarity solution, such as the World Health Organization ORS, is preferred 4.

Key Considerations

When taking Hydralyte, keep in mind:

• The solution should contain the appropriate concentration of sodium, glucose, and base to correct dehydration and prevent further complications 5, 6.
• Hypotonic oral rehydration solutions may be beneficial in reducing stool frequency, vomiting, and ORS requirements in some cases 6.
• It is essential to follow the recommended guidelines for oral rehydration therapy to ensure safe and effective treatment 3, 4, 5, 2, 6.