Dioralyte Sachet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Dioralyte Sachet is an oral rehydration salt (ORS) product used to treat dehydration caused by diarrhoea, and to replace fluids and body salts lost through vomiting or exercise. The powder, which contains sodium chloride, potassium chloride, disodium hydrogen citrate, and a small amount of glucose, is mixed with water before drinking. It is available over the counter without a prescription.

What is Dioralyte Sachet

Dioralyte Sachets are an oral rehydration treatment that you mix with water and then drink. They are available over the counter without a prescription. The powder contains essential body salts such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, disodium hydrogen citrate, and a small amount of glucose (sugar).

Dioralyte Sachet uses

• Treating dehydration caused by diarrhoea
• Replacing fluids and body salts lost through vomiting or exercise

Benefits of Dioralyte Sachet

• Replaces fluids and salts faster and more effectively than water alone
• Fast and effective rehydration once the solution is absorbed
• Helps you feel better quicker than water alone

How Dioralyte Sachet works

Dioralyte contains a balanced mix of salts and glucose. The glucose helps your body absorb the salts and water more efficiently through the gut, moving fluid back into your bloodstream faster than drinking water alone.

Dioralyte Sachet dosage

Empty the contents of the sachet(s) into a glass, add water, and stir until the powder dissolves. Use a sachet as soon as diarrhoea symptoms start and after each loose, watery stool. Make the drink fresh just before you plan to drink it. For babies up to 2 years old, seek guidance from a pharmacist or doctor before use. Adults, including elderly people, and children can use this product, but children under 2 years should only use it under medical guidance.

Available forms and strengths

• Sachet (powder for oral solution)

Side effects of Dioralyte Sachet

Common

• Diarrhea-related dehydration
• Thirst
• Dry mouth
• Reduced urination

Serious

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Mild stomach discomfort
• Bloating
• High sodium levels if mixed incorrectly or taken excessively

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use this product if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, or if your bowel is partially or fully blocked.
• Check with a doctor or pharmacist first if the person taking it is a child under 2 years old, if diarrhoea has lasted 24-48 hours, if you have ongoing or persistent diarrhoea, if you're on a low potassium or low sodium diet, if you have liver or kidney disease, or if you have diabetes.
• If you have the condition phenylketonuria, speak to your doctor before taking this product.
• If you take water tablets (diuretics such as furosemide, spironolactone, or indapamide) and are dehydrated, speak to your doctor for advice on managing your medication.
• Dioralyte can generally be used during pregnancy, but you should speak to a doctor or pharmacist first.
• If breastfeeding, mix with the exact amount of water stated on the packet.
• If you have kidney disease, tell your doctor or pharmacist before using this product so they can make sure it's safe for you.
• If you have liver disease, tell your doctor or pharmacist before using this product so they can make sure it's safe for you.
• Do not mix with juice, milk, or soft drinks.
• Store prepared solution according to packet instructions.

Storage

• The drink should be made just before it's going to be taken
• Throw away any remaining drink after one hour, or after 24 hours if it has been stored in a refrigerator

When to see a doctor

• Stop taking this product and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, trouble swallowing, trouble breathing, or swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue.
• If you or someone else takes a lot more than the recommended amount, seek medical attention straight away.

Alternatives

• Electrolade
• Pedialyte
• ORS Sachet