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Anhydrous Glucose + Potassium Chloride + Sodium Chloride + Sodium Bicarbonate

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At a glance

Anhydrous Glucose + Potassium Chloride + Sodium Chloride + Sodium Bicarbonate (Oral Rehydration Salts) is used to prevent and treat dehydration caused by acute diarrhea. It replaces essential water and salts lost through stools and vomitus.

Description

Anhydrous Glucose + Potassium Chloride + Sodium Chloride + Sodium Bicarbonate (Oral Rehydration Salts) is used to prevent and treat dehydration caused by acute diarrhea. Essential water and salts are lost in stools and vomitus, and dehydration results when blood volume decreases due to fluid loss from the extracellular fluid compartment.

The preservation of the glucose-sodium cotransport system in the small-bowel mucosa is the rationale of oral rehydration therapy. Glucose is actively absorbed in the normal intestine and carries sodium with it in about an equimolar ratio. Therefore, there is greater net absorption of an isotonic salt solution with glucose than one without it.

Potassium replacement during acute diarrhea prevents below-normal serum concentrations of potassium, especially in children. Bicarbonates are effective in correcting the metabolic acidosis caused by diarrhea and dehydration.

Indications
  • Dehydration due to acute diarrhea
  • Gastro-enteritis with dehydration
  • Prolonged vomiting
  • Burns with gastric fistula
  • Pulmonary hemorrhage
  • Intestinal bleeding
Therapeutic class

Electrolyte and Fluid Replacement

Pharmacological class

Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)

Pharmacology

Oral rehydration salts are given orally to prevent or treat dehydration due to acute diarrhoea. Essential water and salts are lost in stools and vomitus, and dehydration results when blood volume is decreased because of fluid loss from the extracellular fluid compartment.

Preservation of the facilitated glucose-sodium cotransport system in the small-bowel mucosa is the rationale of oral rehydration therapy. Glucose is actively absorbed in the normal intestine and carries sodium with it in about an equimolar ratio. Therefore, there is greater net absorption of an isotonic salt solution with glucose than one without it.

Potassium replacement during acute diarrhoea prevents below-normal serum concentrations of potassium, especially in children, in whom stool potassium losses are higher than in adults. Bicarbonates are effective in correcting the metabolic acidosis caused by diarrhoea and dehydration.

Mechanism of action

The glucose-sodium cotransporter (SGLT1) in the small intestinal mucosa transports sodium along with glucose. Glucose is actively absorbed, and sodium and water passively follow. This process enhances water and electrolyte absorption in glucose-containing solutions, helping prevent dehydration.

Dosage

Adult: 200-400 mL of prepared saline after each loose stool or vomiting.

Children (above 10 years): 200-400 mL of prepared saline after each loose stool or vomiting.

Children (2-10 years): 100-200 mL of prepared saline after each loose stool or vomiting.

Children (below 2 years): 50-100 mL (10-20 spoonful) after each loose stool or vomiting.

Special Instructions: Severe continuing diarrhoea or other critical fluid losses may need supplementation with parenteral fluids. Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus. Solutions containing acetate or gluconate ions should be used with caution as excess administration may result in metabolic alkalosis.

Administration

Dissolve the powder in the specified amount of water (usually 1 liter) as per packet instructions. Use the prepared solution within 24 hours. Take the prescribed amount after each loose stool or vomiting. Drink slowly in small sips.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Side effects

No significant side effects at recommended dosage. Overdose may cause electrolyte imbalance.

Precautions & warnings

Precautions:

  • Caution in depressed renal function
  • Severe continuing diarrhoea may need parenteral fluids
  • Consult doctor in critical fluid losses
  • Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus
  • Solutions containing acetate or gluconate ions should be used with caution (excess may cause metabolic alkalosis)
Contraindications

No known contraindications. However, severe renal failure, anuria, or severe electrolyte imbalance requires medical supervision.

Drug interactions

No significant drug interactions known.

Food interactions

Can be taken with or without food.

Use in pregnancy

Safe to use during pregnancy for prevention of dehydration. Consult your doctor.

Use in lactation

Safe to use during breastfeeding for prevention of dehydration.

Pediatric use

Children: Below 2 years: 50-100 mL, 2-10 years: 100-200 mL, Above 10 years: 200-400 mL after each loose stool or vomiting.

Geriatric use

Elderly patients may have decreased renal function, so use with caution.

Renal / hepatic impairment

[CAUTION] Use with caution in patients with kidney disease. Consult your doctor in severe renal impairment.

[CAUTION] Generally safe in liver disease, but consult your doctor.

Overdose effects

Overdose may cause electrolyte imbalance, hypernatremia, or hyperkalemia. Consult your doctor if symptoms occur.

Storage conditions

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Prepared solution should be used within 24 hours. Keep out of reach of children.

Common questions

What is Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)?
It is a special mixture of salts and glucose used to prevent and treat dehydration caused by diarrhea.
How does ORS work?
Glucose helps absorb sodium and water in the small intestine, which prevents dehydration.
What is the dosage of ORS?
Adults & children above 10 years: 200-400 mL, children 2-10 years: 100-200 mL, children below 2 years: 50-100 mL after each loose stool or vomiting.
Are there any side effects?
No significant side effects at recommended dosage. Overdose may cause electrolyte imbalance.
How to prepare ORS?
Dissolve the powder in the specified amount of water as per packet instructions and use within 24 hours.
Can diabetics take ORS?
Yes, but with caution and under medical supervision.
How to store ORS?
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Prepared solution should be used within 24 hours.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.