Whenever your child suffers bouts of diarrhea or vomiting, his body quickly loses essential electrolytes (sodium and potassium) which are essential for the normal function of his cells and organs. A shortfall in your child’s sodium levels can rapidly lead to dehydration which can become the major problem. In cases where the problem of fluid loss is not addressed, dehydration may even become life-threatening.

Using medically formulated oral rehydration salts at the onset of diarrhea can help reduce your child’s risk of dehydration. Call your pediatrician if your child exhibits any of these warning signs: sunken eyes, decreased frequency of urination or fewer wet diapers, no or few tears when he cries, dry mouth, unusual irritability, or if he is overly sleepy.

Soft drinks, sports beverages and fruit juices do not meet medical guidelines to help prevent dehydration when your child is suffering from diarrhea or vomiting. Beverages like these that contain too much sugar may actually make your child’s diarrhea worse.

Pedialyte, the doctor trusted oral rehydration salts, swiftly replaces lost fluids and electrolytes due to diarrhea and vomiting so your child can re-hydrate quickly and recover fast. It is specially formulated to address varying degrees of dehydration. Pedialyte 90 is for moderate to severe fluid loss during gastroenteritis, vomiting and diarrhea. Pedialyte 45 helps manage mild to moderate dehydration and is also available in delicious fruit and bubble gum flavors.