Glucose with sodium chloride, potassium chloride and citrate or bicarbonate salts; exact composition depends on the sachet.
Brand names (as verified)
Electral; WHO-formula ORS products (brand and formulation vary by market)
Dosage form
Other
Strength
Powder sachets dissolved in the exact volume of clean water stated on the package; composition varies by product.
Prescription classification
Non-prescription / OTC (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product composition and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) replace water and electrolytes lost through diarrhoea, vomiting, or other causes of dehydration. They support rehydration but do not treat the underlying illness causing the fluid loss.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
If you are unable to drink, have signs of severe dehydration or shock, or have fluid or electrolyte restrictions, you need urgent medical assessment — ORS alone is not enough in these situations.
Important precautions
Dissolve the entire sachet in exactly the amount of clean water stated on the package. Do not add extra sugar or salt, do not mix with milk or juice unless the packaging specifically allows it, and discard prepared solution after the time stated.
Common side effects
When prepared and used correctly, ORS is generally very well tolerated. Incorrect dilution can cause electrolyte problems or worsen symptoms.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent medical care for confusion, fainting, very little urine output, inability to keep fluids down, blood in stools, severe abdominal pain, or signs of shock.
Important interactions
Tell your doctor about medicines or conditions that require you to limit fluid, sodium, or potassium intake. ORS may not be sufficient for severe illness.
Allergy considerations
Review the exact product ingredients if you have a known allergy or intolerance to any component.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Staying hydrated during pregnancy is important, but severe or persistent symptoms need prompt medical attention.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
ORS can help maintain hydration while breastfeeding. Seek advice if symptoms are severe or either mother or infant shows signs of dehydration.
Children and older adults
Product choice and the amount used depend on age, weight, and how dehydrated the person is. Babies and young children can deteriorate quickly — get prompt medical advice if in doubt.
Storage
Store sachets sealed and dry. Once mixed, store prepared solution and discard leftovers as directed on the packaging.
Missed dose
ORS is not taken on a fixed schedule. Take small, frequent sips as directed by the leaflet or a healthcare professional.
Overdose
Incorrect mixing or taking too much can disturb electrolyte balance. Seek medical advice if the solution was mixed incorrectly or symptoms get worse.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Glucose with sodium chloride, potassium chloride and citrate or bicarbonate salts; exact composition depends on the sachet.
Brand names (as verified)
Electral; WHO-formula ORS products (brand and formulation vary by market)
Dosage form
Other
Strength
Powder sachets dissolved in the exact volume of clean water stated on the package; composition varies by product.
Prescription classification
Non-prescription / OTC (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product composition and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) replace water and electrolytes lost through diarrhoea, vomiting, or other causes of dehydration. They support rehydration but do not treat the underlying illness causing the fluid loss.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
If you are unable to drink, have signs of severe dehydration or shock, or have fluid or electrolyte restrictions, you need urgent medical assessment — ORS alone is not enough in these situations.
Important precautions
Dissolve the entire sachet in exactly the amount of clean water stated on the package. Do not add extra sugar or salt, do not mix with milk or juice unless the packaging specifically allows it, and discard prepared solution after the time stated.
Common side effects
When prepared and used correctly, ORS is generally very well tolerated. Incorrect dilution can cause electrolyte problems or worsen symptoms.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent medical care for confusion, fainting, very little urine output, inability to keep fluids down, blood in stools, severe abdominal pain, or signs of shock.
Important interactions
Tell your doctor about medicines or conditions that require you to limit fluid, sodium, or potassium intake. ORS may not be sufficient for severe illness.
Allergy considerations
Review the exact product ingredients if you have a known allergy or intolerance to any component.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Staying hydrated during pregnancy is important, but severe or persistent symptoms need prompt medical attention.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
ORS can help maintain hydration while breastfeeding. Seek advice if symptoms are severe or either mother or infant shows signs of dehydration.
Children and older adults
Product choice and the amount used depend on age, weight, and how dehydrated the person is. Babies and young children can deteriorate quickly — get prompt medical advice if in doubt.
Storage
Store sachets sealed and dry. Once mixed, store prepared solution and discard leftovers as directed on the packaging.
Missed dose
ORS is not taken on a fixed schedule. Take small, frequent sips as directed by the leaflet or a healthcare professional.
Overdose
Incorrect mixing or taking too much can disturb electrolyte balance. Seek medical advice if the solution was mixed incorrectly or symptoms get worse.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
