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Oral rehydration salts - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Oral rehydration salts

Generic Name : Oral rehydration salts
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Oral rehydration salts are provided here.

Pronunciation : aw-ruhl ree-hai-dray-shuhn saalts

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Oral rehydration salts, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


Trade Names/Brand Names of Oral rehydration salts

India :


NAVA JEEVAN, ELECTRAL, ORS prolyte, WALYTE, STYRUS ORS, Electrorush, Radiplex bolt, RANBAXY ORS

International :


SALVADORA, OS-1, Sunlyte ORS, Emzolyte plus, ORSZCA, Orasel

Overview of Oral rehydration salts

Oral rehydration salts (ORS) are fluid replenishers. It is used to prevent or treat the loss of body fluid due to dehydration, mostly due to diarrhea. Moderate forms of dehydration can be treated with safe and cost-effective oral rehydration therapy.

Why is Oral rehydration salts Prescribed? (Indications)

Oral rehydration salts are prescribed when there is a loss of body fluids in:
  • Aged people who have a lesser sense of thirst.

  • Adults and children suffering from dehydration as a result of gastroenteritis, diarrhea, cholera, and vomiting.

  • Any conditions or medications that may lead to increased sweating or urination.

  • People who tend to drink less water, leading to dehydration.
 

When should Oral rehydration salts not be taken? (Contraindications)

ORT is contraindicated in cases of shock, extreme dehydration, coma, acute abdomen, or absence of bowel sounds.

It is not recommended for patients who have lost more than 10% of their fluid volume.

It is not recommended for patients who are unable to sustain ORS due to vomiting or ileus.

How should Oral rehydration salts be taken?

  • Effervescent Tablets:
  • As needed, dissolve the effervescent tablet in a glass of water.
    Allow some time for it to dissolve before drinking.
  • Powder:
  • Boil one liter of water and allow it to cool.
    Add the required amount of powder to the cooled water and consume.
  • Liquid:
  • They are available in ready-to-drink packs.

Missed a Dose?

If you miss a dose, it is better to skip it and take the next dose correctly. Do not double the dose.

Avoid overdosing, as it may cause salt toxicity.

What are the warnings and precautions for Oral rehydration salts?

If vomiting occurs, discontinue ORS for 10 minutes and then resume at a slower rate.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is better to consult your doctor before taking this medication.

It is not to be given as an injection.

The solution must be consumed within 24 hours of its preparation.

What are the side effects of Oral rehydration salts?

General: Nausea, vomiting, restlessness, confusion
Skin: Rashes, itching and swelling
Gastrointestinal: Loss of appetite, stomach cramps
Mood: Irritability

What are the other precautions for Oral rehydration salts?

Reach out to the nearest healthcare center if you notice unusual weakness, swelling, dizziness, seizures, or trouble breathing.
Do not take this medication if you notice any changes in its color or texture.

What are the Drug Interactions of Oral rehydration salts?

Oral rehydration salts may interact with other medications. Discuss your medication schedule with your doctor to avoid drug interactions.

What are the storage conditions for Oral rehydration salts?

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
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