Generic
Oral rehydration salt [flavore & glucose based]
7 brands available in the market
At a glance
Oral rehydration salt (ORS) is used to replace water and electrolyte loss from the body due to diarrhea. It is effective in prevention and treatment of dehydration and is safe for all ages.
Description
ORS contains dried sucrose, glucose anhydrous, sodium chloride, citric acid anhydrous, potassium chloride and tri sodium citrate dihydrate. Glucose enhances sodium and water absorption in the intestine, helping prevent dehydration. Potassium and sodium maintain electrolyte balance.
Indications
- Prevention of dehydration due to diarrhea
- Management of all types of dehydration
Therapeutic class
Oral Electrolyte Preparations
Pharmacological class
Rehydration Salt
Pharmacology
Glucose in ORS activates sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT1) in the intestinal brush border membrane to enhance sodium and water absorption, helping replace water and electrolyte loss during diarrhea.
Mechanism of action
Prevents dehydration by replacing water and electrolyte loss during diarrhea.
Dosage
Prevention and Treatment of Dehydration:
- Give equal amount of ORS after each loose motion
- Children below 2 years: 50-100 ml (10-20 teaspoonfuls) prepared saline
- Children 2-10 years: 100-200 ml (20-40 teaspoonfuls) prepared saline
- Children above 10 years and adults: 200-400 ml (1-2 glasses) prepared saline
Administration
- Dissolve 1 sachet in 1 liter of water
- Do not use hot water
- Do not heat the mixture
- Use within 12 hours of preparation
- Discard unused portion
Missed dose
Not generally applicable (take as needed); consult doctor if needed.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- No side effects when prepared and used correctly
Precautions & warnings
- Do not mix with hot water
- Do not heat the mixture
- Use within 12 hours of preparation
- Discard unused portion
Contraindications
No contraindications.
Drug interactions
No known interactions.
Food interactions
Take with food for better absorption.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Safe and beneficial during pregnancy.
Pregnancy Category: A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Safe and beneficial during lactation.
Pediatric use
Safe and indicated for children of all ages.
Geriatric use
Safe for all ages.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; monitor potassium levels.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause hypernatremia or hyperkalemia; symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS)