Preparation
Oral Rehydration Salt ORS is a balanced mixture of electrolytes and glucose, formulated to prevent and treat dehydration caused by diarrhea or other conditions leading to fluid loss.
Typical ORS Composition:
Sodium chloride (NaCl)
Potassium chloride (KCl)
Trisodium citrate dihydrate (Na₃C₆H₅O₇·2H₂O) or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃)
Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆)
WHO-Recommended Composition:
Sodium chloride: 2.6 g
Potassium chloride: 1.5 g
Trisodium citrate dihydrate: 2.9 g (or sodium bicarbonate: 2.5 g)
Glucose: 13.5 g
Typically, available as a dry powder to be dissolved in water to prepare an oral rehydration solution
Properties
White, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water, forming a clear, colorless solution
The resulting solution has a slightly salty taste due to the presence of electrolytes
The glucose in ORS facilitates the absorption of sodium and water in the intestines, enhancing rehydration
Uses of Oral Rehydration Salt
Used to prevent and treat dehydration caused by diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating
Particularly useful in treating dehydration in infants and young children
Essential in the management of acute gastroenteritis, cholera, and other diarrheal diseases
Can be used to prevent dehydration in individuals at risk of fluid loss, such as athletes or those working in hot environments