Can Pedialyte (electrolyte solution) be given to a 4-month-old infant?

From the Guidelines

Pedialyte can be given to a 4-month-old infant, but only under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as it is a recommended oral rehydration solution for infants with mild to moderate dehydration, according to the 2017 Infectious Diseases Society of America clinical practice guidelines 1. For infants under 1 year old, always consult with a pediatrician before administering Pedialyte, as they will provide specific dosing instructions based on your baby's weight and condition.

• Typically, small amounts (1-2 teaspoons or 5-10 mL) every 15-20 minutes are recommended initially, gradually increasing as tolerated.
• Pedialyte helps replace fluids and electrolytes lost during diarrhea or vomiting, which is particularly important for infants who can become dehydrated quickly due to their small body size. Some key points to consider when using Pedialyte for a 4-month-old infant include:
• Signs of dehydration in infants include fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, sunken fontanelle (soft spot), excessive sleepiness, and crying without tears.
• Breast milk or formula should remain the primary source of nutrition for a 4-month-old, with Pedialyte used only as a temporary supplement during illness.
• If your infant shows signs of dehydration or illness persists beyond 24 hours, seek immediate medical attention. It is essential to follow the guidelines and recommendations provided by the healthcare provider and to monitor the infant's condition closely to ensure the best possible outcome, as supported by the evidence from the 2017 Infectious Diseases Society of America clinical practice guidelines 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

Indications For use in conditions associated with fluid and electrolyte loss such as dehydration, shock, vomitting, and diarrhea, particularly when an immediate source of energy is also indicated The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Oral Rehydration Solutions for Infants

• Oral rehydration solutions, such as Pedialyte, are commonly used to treat dehydration in infants caused by acute diarrhea 2, 3, 4.
• These solutions typically contain a combination of glucose and electrolytes, including sodium and potassium, to help replenish fluids and electrolytes lost due to diarrhea.

Efficacy of Pedialyte in Infants

• A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that Pedialyte was effective in rehydrating infants with mild to moderate dehydration caused by acute diarrhea 2.
• Another study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition found that Pedialyte was safe and effective in treating hypernatremic dehydration in infants 3.
• A randomized trial published in Pediatrics compared the efficacy of Pedialyte with another oral rehydration solution and found that both solutions were effective in rehydrating infants with dehydration due to acute watery diarrhea 4.

Administration of Pedialyte to a 4-Month-Old Infant

• While the studies mentioned above do not specifically address the administration of Pedialyte to a 4-month-old infant, they do suggest that oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte can be used to treat dehydration in infants of this age group 2, 3, 4.
• However, it is essential to follow the recommended dosage and administration guidelines for Pedialyte, and to consult with a healthcare professional before giving it to a 4-month-old infant.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants with acute diarrhea be treated with an oral rehydration solution, such as Pedialyte, and that breastfeeding or formula feeding be continued as usual 5, 6.