ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It has the right balance of sugar and salt to be absorbed well. Sports drinks and juice have too much sugar for this.
What it's used for
- Dehydration from vomiting, diarrhea, or heat
How to take it
- Give small amounts often, like 1 teaspoon every few minutes for a child who's vomiting, then increase.
- Keep breastfeeding babies.
- Don't add water to premixed products or mix powders stronger than directed.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Few; vomiting may happen at first
Call 911A child who is very sleepy, hard to wake, or has no tears and no pee for 8 hours
Call your provider todayCan't keep down even small sips, or bloody diarrhea
Warnings
- Don't use homemade recipes for babies unless a provider says to.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- None.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Safe in pregnancy.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Not applicable: drink it as needed to replace losses.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Refrigerate opened liquid and use within 48 hours.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Oral rehydration solution (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.