Polymer-based oral rehydration solution for treating acute watery diarrhoea
Gregorio GV, Gonzales ML, Dans LF, Martinez EG
Published in Cochrane Database Syst Rev, Vol. 12 (12), pp. CD006519
Methodology
Cochrane systematic review of 35 randomised trials (4,284 participants, mostly children) comparing polymer-based oral rehydration solution (usually made with rice) with glucose-based solution of the same electrolyte content in acute watery diarrhea.
Key Findings
Against the older high-osmolarity glucose solution, polymer-based solution reduced 24-hour stool output by about 65 mL/kg and diarrhea duration by about 8.6 hours, and slightly fewer people needed intravenous fluid (RR 0.75). Against the current reduced-osmolarity solution, results favoured polymer-based solution but the analysis was underpowered. Evidence quality was low to very low.
Conclusions
Rice- or starch-based oral rehydration may shorten diarrhea a little compared with older glucose solutions; the advantage over today's standard formula is unproven.
Limitations
Low-quality evidence with substantial heterogeneity; most trials in children in low-income countries.
Supplements Studied
Glucose-based oral rehydration solution (ORS) helps replace fluid and prevent further dehydration from acute diarrhoea
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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