Oral Rehydration Solution or ORS, is a basic, and often, the first line of treatment for dehydration, which results from diarrhea, vomiting and other fluid loss conditions. The relatively inexpensive mixture of water, salts (electrolytes), and glucose in ORS, enables the body to rapidly restore lost fluids and minerals which protects against fatal outcomes.Ingredients in ORSORS contains glucose, sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium and phosphorus ions, which form a balanced aqueous mixture. The consumption of ORS enables the body to extract fluids and electrolytes from the digestive system, which then enter the bloodstream. The solution helps restore body water, carbohydrate and mineral levels, which become imbalanced because of dehydration.The solution contains specific amounts of ingredients, which follow exact ratios to effectively treat dehydration. The ORS solution contains sodium chloride, sodium citrate or bicarbonate, potassium chloride and glucose as its main ingredients. The intestinal cells use glucose to boost their sodium, and water absorption process.How does ORS workThe intestinal cells use a natural sodium-glucose co-transport system to absorb sodium through glucose, which then draws water into the bloodstream. The treatment method works to restore body fluids at a safe pace for all dehydration levels, including those caused by acute diarrhea, cholera and heatwave-related excessive sweating.The solution effectively treats dehydration, because it addresses the primary cause of water and salt depletion in the body. The solution provides better results than plain water and other drinks, because it contains balanced electrolytes which help restore essential minerals for muscle operation and nerve transmission. The solution helps prevent serious health issues including kidney failure, by replenishing vital minerals which control muscle function and nerve signaling.
Why is ORS importantPrevents child deaths from DiarrheaThe leading cause of death for children under five years old worldwide, is common in low- and middle-income countries, because of diarrhea. The implementation of ORS solution has proven to decrease diarrheal dehydration-related deaths by 93%, according to research. The World Health Organization recognizes ORS as a lifesaving treatment , because it provides an affordable and effective solution for dehydration management.Easy to use and accessible to allThe solution works for people of all ages starting from infants through to elderly patients. The solution can be taken orally without need for medical equipment or intravenous administration, which makes it suitable for home care and emergency situations. The solution packets remain affordable while requiring only clean water for preparation, and they reach healthcare facilities and communities across the world.Supports faster recoveryThe solution helps patients recover their strength and energy levels at a faster rate, because it restores their electrolyte balance and hydration levels. The solution protects patients from developing hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis, which are common complications that occur during severe diarrhea episodes. The treatment enables patients to recover faster, while minimising their need for hospitalisation and intravenous medication administration.Beyond DiarrheaThe solution also provides effective treatment for dehydration that results from heat exhaustion, vomiting and intense physical activities which lead to fluid loss. The solution helps patients who receive chemotherapy to maintain their hydration levels and electrolyte balance, when they experience vomiting or diarrhea.
Why is ORS in the news The recent news about ORS stems from Indian regulatory actions, which addresses the improper use of “ORS” branding on commercial products. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) took action to stop companies from using “ORS” as a label for products which do not follow World Health Organization ORS standards. The organisation took this action to stop deceptive marketing practices, which threatened to harm children through dangerous or unsuitable products, containing excessive sugar and insufficient salt.The Delhi High Court has issued a temporary ban on the ORS product, after multiple companies requested an appeal against the decision. Health professionals state that ORS identity dilution will lead to increased child deaths from dehydration, because it compromises the lifesaving properties of this treatment. The ORS solution functions as a primary treatment which saves more than 90% of children under five from dying from diarrheal dehydration, so proper regulatory oversight is essential.How to use ORS properly
- • The first step for ORS administration should be when diarrhea, or vomiting symptoms appear.
- • The ORS packet needs to dissolve in water that matches the amount shown on the packet, for safe preparation.
- • Children and infants should maintain their regular feeding schedule while receiving ORS treatment.
- • The dosage amount depends on age, because children under two years need 50-100 ml after each bowel movement, while children from two to nine years need 100-200 ml, and adults can drink up to 2 liters daily.
- • People should stay away from consuming drinks that contain sugar, caffeine, alcohol when they experience dehydration.
Scientific backing
- The World Health Organization recognizes ORS as an essential medicine, because it provides basic yet effective treatment for diarrhea-related deaths.
- Multiple clinical research studies demonstrate that ORS treatment decreases child mortality from dehydrating diarrhea by 93%, which proves its essential role in worldwide health care.
- Research shows that the intestinal sodium-glucose co-transport system operates as the essential mechanism, which enables ORS to function properly.
- Global public health initiatives promote ORS as the primary treatment for dehydration management and prevention.
Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice