Oral Rehydration Salts

Oral rehydration salts are mixed with safe water to replace fluid and body salts lost through illness.

The sachet contains a measured mixture of salts and glucose. When mixed as directed, the drink helps the intestine take up water and electrolytes. It is different from an ordinary soft drink, juice, or sports drink, which may not have the same balance of ingredients.

The concentration is important. Using too little water can make the drink too concentrated, while adding extra powder can also be harmful. Use the amount of water stated on the packet, mix until dissolved, and do not add sugar, salt, juice, or other flavourings unless a healthcare professional has advised it. Prepared solution should be handled and stored according to the packet instructions.

Oral rehydration salts are commonly used when diarrhoea or vomiting causes fluid loss. Small, frequent sips may be easier to manage when nausea is present. They can be part of oral rehydration therapy for adults and children who can safely drink, but they do not treat the cause of infection or replace assessment when dehydration is significant.

For mild fluid loss, suitable everyday drinks and food may contribute to recovery when tolerated. Breastfed infants should generally continue breastfeeding. A clinician may recommend a different plan for babies, older adults, people with kidney or heart conditions, or people who must limit fluid or salt. Intravenous fluids can be needed when drinking is not possible or dehydration is more severe.

Get medical advice promptly for a baby or young child with poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, no tears, a dry mouth, or much less urine. Adults should seek assessment for confusion, fainting, marked weakness, very little urine, persistent vomiting, blood in stool or vomit, severe abdominal pain, or a high fever. These signs reflect the effect or possible cause of illness and need attention even if rehydration solution is being used.

Read the packet carefully for the correct dilution and discard any prepared drink as instructed. Do not use a homemade mixture in place of a commercial product when a measured sachet is available. People with diabetes, kidney disease, heart failure, or a prescribed fluid restriction should ask a clinician or pharmacist before using oral rehydration salts.