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Principles and Practice of Oral Rehydration

  • Small Intestine (D Sachar, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

An understanding of fluid and electrolyte losses from diarrhea and mechanisms of solute cotransport led to development of oral rehydration solution (ORS), representing a watershed in efforts to reduce diarrheal disease morbidity and mortality. This report reviews the scientific rationale and modifications of ORS and barriers to universal application.

Recent Findings

Solutions with osmolality and electrolyte composition different from original ORS for routine and unique pathophysiology such as in malnutrition have met with varying success. Following the conceptual rationale of sodium-glucose cotransportation to facilitate water absorption, other cotransporters and formulations have been explored with the aim to improve ORS efficacy and acceptance.

Summary

ORS remains the anchor of acute watery diarrhea and dehydration management worldwide. Despite development of different formulations, the current standard solution is the mainstay of treatment for nearly all situations. Efforts to improve oral hydration solution and to increase acceptance and usage are ongoing.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine/Kentucky Children’s Hospital, Lexington, USA

    Sylvia Y. Ofei & George J. Fuchs III

  2. Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 138 Leader Ave, Lexington, KY, 40506-9983, USA

    Sylvia Y. Ofei & George J. Fuchs III

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  1. Sylvia Y. Ofei
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  2. George J. Fuchs III
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Correspondence to George J. Fuchs III.

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Ofei, S.Y., Fuchs, G.J. Principles and Practice of Oral Rehydration. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 21, 67 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-019-0734-1

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