Oral rehydration salts (WHO formula)
What it is
The WHO oral rehydration salt formula is one of the most important medical interventions of the 20th century, estimated to have saved over 50 million lives from dehydration due to diarrhoeal disease. The reduced osmolarity formula speeds intestinal water absorption. Extremely safe, inexpensive, and effective. Evidence base is among the strongest of any intervention in medicine.
Dose
WHO formula: 2.6 g NaCl, 2.9 g trisodium citrate, 1.5 g KCl, 13.5 g anhydrous glucose per litre of clean water
Time of day & tips
Sip frequently in small amounts rather than gulping. Prepare fresh each day. Discard after 24 hours. Seek medical care if unable to keep fluids down or if bloody diarrhoea is present.
Compare or learn more
Compare with another supplement →
Browse by symptom →
Open the full interactive view →