Article reviewed by Le Thanh Cam, Specialist Level II, MD - Department of Pediatrics - Neonatology, Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital.
Recently, there have been many cases where parents improperly administered Oresol to their children, leading to serious health consequences. Oresol is a widely used oral rehydration solution (ORS) containing sugar and salt. When mixed correctly, it effectively replenishes fluids and electrolytes lost due to dehydration. However, not everyone knows the proper way to use Oresol safely.
1. When should Oresol be taken?
Oresol should not be consumed daily, as it is a medical solution intended for specific purposes, including:
- Rehydration and electrolyte replacement in cases of fever, diarrhea, excessive vomiting, or mild to moderate dehydration in both children and adults who can tolerate oral fluids.
- Hydration for individuals exposed to hot environments or those engaging in intense physical activity that causes excessive sweating.
2. Dangers of improper Oresol use
Oresol primarily contains salt and sugar. when properly mixed and administered, it helps replenish lost fluids and support recovery. However, incorrect preparation or usage can worsen a child's condition and even lead to severe neurological complications or death.
In many cases, children develop hypernatremia due to cellular dehydration, if left untreated, this can result in serious neurological complications, including brain atrophy. Common neurological symptoms of hypernatremia includes: fatigue, altered consciousness, coma, seizures. The primary cause of hypernatremia in these cases is improper preparation of Oresol by caregivers.
Many caregivers, fearing that their child won’t drink Oresol, mix it with less water than instructed. This is extremely dangerous because too little water increases sodium concentration in the blood, leading to cellular dehydration. This can cause seizures, coma, irreversible brain damage, and, if untreated, death.
If Oresol is over-diluted, the amount of salt replenished will be insufficient compared to the water intake, reducing its effectiveness in restoring electrolyte balance. In cases of excessive consumption, the high water intake with inadequate sodium can lead to cell rupture, disrupting bodily functions and potentially causing serious health complications.
3. Precautions when taking Oresol
To ensure safety and effectiveness, follow these key guidelines when using Oresol:
- Read the instructions carefully and strictly adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended dosage. For example, if the instructions state to mix a packet with 200ml of water, use an accurate measuring tool rather than estimating or using imprecise containers.
- After mixing the solution with water, it should be consumed within 24 hours. If not finished within this time, discard the remaining solution and prepare a fresh batch. Do not store it in the refrigerator for gradual consumption.
- Do not divide the packet for multiple uses, as this can disrupt the correct electrolyte balance and make the solution ineffective.
- Do not boil the prepared solution, as heat can alter its properties, cause evaporation, and increase osmolarity, making it unsafe for consumption.
- Never add extra sugar or mix Oresol with milk, juice, soft drinks, etc. Always dissolve it in clean filtered water or cooled boiled water to avoid dangerous complications.
- Avoid purchasing pre-mixed Oresol solutions, as their effectiveness in rehydration and electrolyte replacement is not guaranteed.
- If a child shows signs of altered consciousness, such as drowsiness, lethargy, excessive fatigue, or frequent vomiting, parents should immediately take the child to a medical facility for prompt evaluation and treatment.
Oresol is a scientific breakthrough that has saved countless children from dehydration worldwide. Its effectiveness depends entirely on proper usage—when taken correctly, it provides effective treatment. However, improper use may lead to ineffectiveness or even life-threatening complications. Do not use Oresol indiscriminately - always read and strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the packaging.
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