From the Guidelines
No, you should not dilute Pedialyte for infants, as it is specifically formulated with the correct balance of electrolytes and water to properly rehydrate infants and children, and diluting it would reduce its effectiveness 1. For infants under 1 year old, you can offer Pedialyte in its original form using a bottle, sippy cup, or oral syringe. Start with small amounts (1-2 teaspoons) every 15-20 minutes and gradually increase as tolerated.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that oral solutions used for rehydration should contain 75-90 mEq/L of sodium, but for prevention of dehydration or maintenance of hydration status, solutions with 40-60 mEq/L of sodium are recommended 1. Pedialyte is a commercially available oral rehydration solution that can be used for infants and children.
Some key points to consider when using Pedialyte for infants include:
- For infants under 6 months, consult a pediatrician before giving Pedialyte.
- The solution works because it contains the optimal ratio of sodium, potassium, and glucose to promote water absorption in the intestines.
- Diluting Pedialyte would disrupt this balance and could potentially worsen dehydration.
- If your infant is showing signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, sunken eyes, lethargy), contact your healthcare provider immediately, especially if they cannot keep fluids down or if dehydration symptoms persist after 12-24 hours of Pedialyte use 1.
It's also important to note that 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
Oral Rehydration Solutions for Infants
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using an oral rehydration solution like Pedialyte for infants with mild to moderate dehydration caused by acute diarrhea 2.
- Studies have shown that Pedialyte is a safe and effective glucose/electrolyte solution for oral rehydration therapy in infants 3, 2.
- However, it is essential to follow the recommended dilution instructions for Pedialyte to avoid any potential risks associated with hypernatremic dehydration 4.
Dilution of Pedialyte
- There is no evidence to suggest that diluting Pedialyte is necessary or recommended for infants 5, 3, 2, 4.
- In fact, diluting Pedialyte may alter the sodium-glucose relationship, pH, and osmolality of the solution, which could affect its efficacy and safety 5.
- The World Health Organization-recommended oral rehydration solution and Pedialyte have been shown to be effective in treating dehydration in infants without the need for dilution 6, 3, 4.
Safety and Efficacy
- Pedialyte has been found to be a safe and effective oral rehydration solution for infants with mild to moderate dehydration caused by acute diarrhea 3, 2.
- Studies have shown that Pedialyte can help correct electrolyte abnormalities and promote successful rehydration in infants 6, 3, 2, 4.
- However, it is crucial to follow the recommended usage and administration guidelines for Pedialyte to ensure its safety and efficacy in infants 5, 3, 2, 4.