Can I give Pedialyte (oral rehydration solution) to an 8-month-old infant who is vomiting?

Yes, Pedialyte Can Be Given to an 8-Month-Old Who Is Vomiting

Yes, you can and should give Pedialyte (oral rehydration solution) to an 8-month-old infant who is vomiting, as it is specifically recommended by major medical guidelines for managing dehydration in infants of all ages. 1

How to Administer Pedialyte to a Vomiting Infant

Start with Very Small Volumes

• Begin with 5 mL (approximately 1 teaspoon) using a teaspoon, syringe, or medicine dropper 2
• Gradually increase the volume as tolerated by the infant 2
• This small-volume approach is critical when vomiting is present, as it minimizes the risk of triggering more vomiting 3

Dosing Based on Weight and Severity

For an 8-month-old (typically under 10 kg):

• For each vomiting episode: Give 60-120 mL of Pedialyte 1
• Alternative calculation: 2 mL/kg for each episode of vomiting 2
• Maximum daily amount: Up to approximately 500 mL/day 1

If dehydration is already present:

• Mild to moderate dehydration: Administer 50-100 mL/kg over 3-4 hours 2
• For a typical 8-month-old weighing 8-9 kg, this would be approximately 400-900 mL over 3-4 hours 2

Why Pedialyte Is the Right Choice

Appropriate Electrolyte Composition

• Pedialyte is specifically formulated as a low-osmolarity oral rehydration solution that can be safely given to all age groups 1
• It contains the proper balance of sodium (45 mEq/L) and glucose to enable coupled transport across the intestinal brush border, which remains intact even during illness 1

What NOT to Use

Do not use the following for rehydration: 1

• Apple juice
• Gatorade or sports drinks
• Commercial soft drinks
• These beverages have inappropriate electrolyte content and high osmolality that can worsen dehydration 1, 3

When to Seek Emergency Care

Go to the emergency department immediately if: 2

• The infant shows signs of severe dehydration (lethargy, sunken eyes, no tears, no urine for 6+ hours)
• The infant cannot tolerate even small volumes of Pedialyte
• Vomiting persists despite small-volume administration
• Signs of shock appear (altered mental status, poor perfusion, weak pulse)

In these cases, intravenous rehydration will be necessary until vital signs normalize 1

Important Practical Considerations

Continue Breastfeeding

• If the infant is breastfed, continue nursing throughout the illness in addition to giving Pedialyte 1
• Breast milk provides both hydration and nutrition 1

Resume Normal Feeding Quickly

• Once rehydration is achieved (typically after 3-4 hours), resume age-appropriate diet and regular formula 1
• Do not delay feeding until vomiting completely stops 3
• Previously used lactose-containing formula can be continued without dilution 1

Proper Preparation Warning

• Only use commercially prepared Pedialyte as directed on the package 1
• Never make homemade oral rehydration solutions or improperly dilute commercial products, as this can cause serious complications including gastrointestinal hemorrhage and electrolyte imbalances 4

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don't give too much too fast: Large volumes will trigger more vomiting; stick to small, frequent amounts 2, 3
• Don't use juice or sports drinks: These worsen dehydration due to high sugar content and low sodium 1
• Don't withhold feeding after rehydration: Resume normal diet within 3-4 hours 1, 3
• Don't use anti-diarrheal medications: These are not recommended in children with acute gastroenteritis 2, 3