GENERIC NAME: ELECTROLYTE SOLUTION - ORAL (ih-LECK-troh-lite solution)
BRAND NAME(S): Equalyte, Pedialyte
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This solution restores fluids and minerals lost to diarrhea or vomiting.
HOW TO USE: Do not add water. The solution is ready-to-use. The total amount to be given is determined by the severity of vomiting or diarrhea and the degree of dehydration. You may need to contact your doctor for the exact amount to be given and for how long. Generally one to two ounces per pound of body weight is given over a period of 2 to 4 hours in this manner: one teaspoonful every 10 to 15 minutes for 30 minutes; if this is tolerated, give one tablespoonful every 15 to 20 minutes followed by two tablespoonfuls every 30 minutes. If not tolerated or if diarrhea persists, contact the doctor. The amount given each time may be gradually increased until 4 to 6 ounces (120 to 180 ml) can be given every 3 to 4 hours so that 1 to 2 quarts (1 to 2 liters) are taken per day while the diarrhea continues (adults may need more).
SIDE EFFECTS: A common side effect that usually goes away during treatment is mild vomiting. If it continues, call the doctor. Call the doctor immediately if any of the following effects occur: convulsions or seizures, dizziness, rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, irritability, muscle twitching, restlessness, weakness, swelling of feet or lower legs, puffy eyelids. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: This solution should not be given when: there is an inability to drink (as in cases of shock), persistent vomiting is present, stool losses are greater than 2 ounces per pound of body weight (100ml per kg) per hour--this is about 2 quarts (2 liters) per hour for a 30 pound (14 kg) child, there is difficulty urinating, intestinal blockage is present. Call the doctor immediately when signs of dehydration are present. These include: severe thirst, doughy skin, sunken eyes. Avoid other electrolyte-containing foods or liquids, such as fruit juices or foods with added salt, until treatment with this medicine is completed. Breast-fed infants should be given breast milk between doses of the solution.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Diarrhea - Read the causes of diarrhea including infections, parasites, food poisoning, medications, IBS, IBD, cancer, endocrine disease, fat malabsorption, laxative abuse and more.
- Antiemetics - Learn some of the causes of nausea and vomiting (pregnancy, motion sickness, overeating, postoperative) and read about treatments and their side effects.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows