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Commercial oral rehydration solutions--pitfalls, knowledge, attitude and practices
N C Prajapati1, P Choudhury, H P Sachdev
1Department of Pediatrics, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi.
Indian Pediatrics
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Commercial oral rehydration solutions (ORS) often lack WHO-recommended composition, with many having low sodium and high glucose. Healthcare professionals show limited awareness of ORS formulation details.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are crucial for treating dehydration.
- Commercial ORS availability and adherence to World Health Organization (WHO) standards are critical for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the composition, packaging, and availability of commercial ORS in local markets.
- To assess the awareness and knowledge of healthcare professionals and chemists regarding ORS.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 50 chemist stores to assess ORS brands and availability.
- Analysis of ORS formulations for adherence to WHO recommended composition (sodium, glucose concentrations, and ratio).
- Questionnaires administered to doctors, nurses, and chemists regarding ORS knowledge.
Main Results:
- Only 48% of analyzed ORS formulations met WHO recommended composition.
- Significant variations in sodium (≤30 mEq/L in 25%) and glucose (>2% in 41%) concentrations were observed.
- Healthcare professional awareness of WHO-ORS composition was notably low, especially among chemists and nurses.
Conclusions:
- Many commercially available ORS products do not meet WHO standards, potentially impacting treatment efficacy.
- There is a critical need for improved education and standardization of ORS products and professional knowledge.