What is the treatment for dehydration in children using Pedialyte (electrolyte solution)?

From the Guidelines

Pedialyte is an effective treatment for mild to moderate dehydration in children, and it is recommended to offer 50-100 mL/kg over 3-4 hours for infants and children, as stated in the 2017 IDSA guidelines 1.

Treatment Guidelines

The following guidelines are recommended for treating dehydration in children using Pedialyte:

• For infants under 10 kg (22 pounds), offer 60-120 mL (2-4 ounces) of Pedialyte for each episode of diarrhea or vomiting.
• For children over 10 kg, provide 120-240 mL (4-8 ounces) after each loose stool or vomiting episode.
• Start with small amounts (1-2 teaspoons) every 5-10 minutes and gradually increase as tolerated.

Importance of Electrolyte Balance

Pedialyte works because it contains the optimal balance of sugar and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride) that helps the intestines absorb fluids more effectively than water alone. The small amount of glucose facilitates sodium absorption through co-transport mechanisms in the intestinal wall.

Additional Recommendations

• Continue regular feeding if the child can eat, as food provides necessary calories for recovery.
• Breastfeeding should continue throughout rehydration.
• If dehydration is severe (signs include lethargy, sunken eyes, decreased urination, excessive drowsiness), seek immediate medical attention as intravenous fluids may be necessary.
• Avoid giving sports drinks, sodas, or juice as these contain too much sugar and inappropriate electrolyte levels that can worsen diarrhea, as recommended by the 2017 IDSA guidelines 1 and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1.

From the Research

Treatment for Dehydration in Children using Pedialyte

• Pedialyte is an electrolyte solution used for oral rehydration therapy in children with dehydration caused by acute diarrhea or vomiting 2, 3.
• The solution contains sodium, potassium, chloride, citrate, and glucose, which help replace lost fluids and electrolytes in the body 3.
• Studies have shown that oral rehydration with Pedialyte is as effective as intravenous rehydration in treating mild to moderate dehydration in children 2, 4.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends oral rehydration therapy as the first-line treatment for both mildly and moderately dehydrated children 4.

Administration of Pedialyte

• Pedialyte should be given to children in small, frequent amounts to help replace lost fluids and electrolytes 5.
• The solution can be administered orally, and the child should be encouraged to drink small amounts frequently 5.
• In cases of vomiting, Pedialyte can be given in small amounts (e.g., a teaspoonful every one or two minutes) to help the child retain the fluid 5.

Efficacy and Safety of Pedialyte

• Studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Pedialyte in treating dehydration in children 2, 3.
• One study found that Pedialyte was as effective as another oral rehydration solution in treating mild to moderate dehydration in infants 2.
• Another study found that Pedialyte was a safe and effective glucose/electrolyte solution for oral rehydration therapy in infants with dehydration due to acute watery diarrhea 3.

Comparison with Other Treatments

• Oral rehydration therapy with Pedialyte has been compared to intravenous rehydration in several studies, with results showing that oral rehydration is as effective as intravenous rehydration in treating mild to moderate dehydration in children 2, 4.
• One study found that oral rehydration therapy with Pedialyte was associated with a shorter time to initiation of therapy and fewer hospitalizations compared to intravenous rehydration 4.