Principles and Practice of Oral Rehydration

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.

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. 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.