ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts): uses, dose & side effects
Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
ORS is a simple, life-saving mix of salts and glucose in clean water. It replaces water and salts lost in diarrhoea, vomiting or heat, and is the first-line treatment for dehydration.
Typical dose — general reference only, NOT a prescription
Measure
Range
Category
Over-the-counter (OTC)
Adult dose
Drink after each loose stool/vomit as needed (about 200 ml per stool); sip steadily
Child (paediatric) dose
Under 2 yr: 50–100 ml after each stool; older children: 100–200 ml per stool
What it is used for
Preventing and treating dehydration from diarrhoea or vomiting
Fluid loss from heat or heavy sweating
Recovery of fluids and salts in gastroenteritis
Common brand names
India: Electral, Enerzal, WHO-ORS, Prolyte
Worldwide: Pedialyte, Dioralyte, Hydralyte
Common side effects
Very few when prepared correctly
Mild nausea if drunk too fast
Before taking it — precautions
Mix one sachet with the exact water stated on the pack
Do not add extra sugar or salt
Sip slowly and often
When to see a doctor urgently
Severe dehydration (sunken eyes, very little urine, drowsiness) needs medical care
Unable to keep fluids down
Blood in stools or high fever
Doses are a general reference, not a prescription. Doses shown are typical adult/paediatric references and vary with age, weight, kidney/liver function and the exact product. Paediatric doses are usually weight-based and must be set by a doctor. MedDroid cannot prescribe — always confirm ors and your dose with a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack.
Frequently asked questions
How do I prepare ORS correctly?
Dissolve one full sachet in the exact volume of clean water on the pack. Too little water makes it too concentrated and unsafe.
Can adults use ORS?
Yes — anyone losing fluids from diarrhoea, vomiting or heat benefits, not just children.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.