Oral rehydration salts: how to take it safely
ORS, Dioralyte, Zinc-ORS
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Replaces water and salts lost in diarrhoea and vomiting. It prevents dehydration.
How to take it
- Wash your hands. Mix 1 sachet in the amount of clean water on the packet. Stir until dissolved.
- Give small sips often. Make a fresh mix every 24 hours.
When to take it
Drink after each loose stool or vomit, as the label says.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Adding extra sugar, salt or fruit juice to the mix.
- Using less or more water than the packet says.
- Using unclean water.
Possible side effects
Rarely, vomiting at first. Wait 10 minutes and continue with small sips.
Get help if
Signs of dehydration (very dry mouth, sunken eyes, no urine for 8 hours, drowsiness), blood in the stool, high fever or repeated vomiting: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.