Is reduced osmolarity oral rehydration solution better than the standard solution for children with diarrhoea and dehydration? Evidence Update, Child Health Series, August 2003

Abstract

In children admitted to hospital with diarrhoea, reduced osmolarity ORS is associated with fewer unscheduled intravenous fluid infusions, lower stool volume, and less vomiting when compared to WHO standard ORS. Based on this review WHO and UNICEF now recommend reduced osmolarity ORS (total osmolarity 250 mmol/L or less with reduced sodium) be adopted as standard in primary care. This Evidence Update was adapted from Hahn S, Kim S, Garner P. Reduced osmolarity oral rehydration solution for treating dehydration caused by acute diarrhoea in children (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 3, 2003