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Overview: Electrolyte replacement products are used to prevent or treat dehydration by replacing water and electrolytes. There are many products available in various flavors and forms, including ready-to-drink liquids, powders you can mix with water, and popsicles. 

Uses

What are electrolyte replacement products used for?

Electrolyte replacement products are commonly used to prevent or treat dehydration by replacing water and electrolytes. Examples of things that can lead to dehydration include the following.

How do electrolyte replacement products work (mechanism of action)?

These products help replace water and electrolytes. Some products contain glucose, which helps your body absorb sodium and water.

How are electrolyte replacement products supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Ceralyte
  • Hydralyte
  • KinderLyte
  • Oralyte
  • Pedialyte
  • Rehydralyte
  • Suero

Example dosage forms and strengths

Many different products are available in various strengths and dosage forms that are taken by mouth.

How should I store electrolyte replacement products?

Store as recommended on the product label.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of electrolyte replacement products?

Electrolyte replacement products are usually well tolerated. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.

Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use electrolyte replacement products?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the ingredients in a given product should not take it. There are multiple products available, and they may have different ingredients. 

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific product you choose.

What should I know about electrolyte replacement products before using them?

Use electrolyte replacement products to prevent or treat dehydration as your health care provider recommends and follow the instructions on the product label. 

Know the signs and symptoms of dehydration. Early signs of dehydration may include the following.

  • Headaches
  • Feeling dizzy
  • Feeling more thirsty than usual
  • Dark-colored pee (urine)
  • Dry skin

Keep these products out of the reach of children.

An electrolyte replacement product may taste better when it is cold. Consider storing it in the refrigerator or serving it over ice to improve the flavor. 

What should I tell my health care provider before using electrolyte replacement products?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if an electrolyte replacement product is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Diabetes. Most products have glucose in them, which can affect your blood sugar level. If you have trouble with high blood sugar or diabetes, check with your health care provider before using a product that contains glucose. 

Interactions

Do electrolyte replacement products interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between electrolyte replacement products and foods or drinks.

Drinking alcohol can lead to dehydration. It is best to limit the amount of alcohol you drink. 

Do electrolyte replacement products interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Electrolyte replacement products may interact with certain medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much electrolyte replacement product?

If you or someone else has used too much of an electrolyte replacement product, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of electrolyte replacement product?

Any product is meant to be used only when needed. Use it as your health care provider recommends. Do not take double or extra doses.