Dioralyte Sachets are an oral rehydration therapy designed to replace water and essential electrolytes (salts) lost from the body during episodes of diarrhoea or vomiting. Each sachet contains a balanced combination of glucose, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and disodium hydrogen citrate. The glucose helps the body absorb the electrolytes and water more efficiently from the gut. Dioralyte is available in natural, citrus, and blackcurrant flavours and can be used by adults and children (NHS, Dehydration).

Dissolve the contents of one sachet in 200ml (approximately 7 fluid ounces) of fresh drinking water. For adults and children, use clean drinking water. For infants, freshly boiled and cooled water should be used. Stir until the powder is fully dissolved and drink the solution. The liquid should be made up immediately before use, and any unused solution should be discarded after one hour. Do not add anything else to the solution, as this may alter the balance of salts and sugars.

Adults and children over 12 years of age should take one to two sachets after each loose bowel movement, dissolved in the appropriate amount of water (200ml per sachet, or up to 400ml for two sachets). Children aged 1 to 12 years should take one sachet dissolved in 200ml of water after each loose bowel movement. For infants aged 3 months to 1 year, use should be under close medical supervision. Always refer to the patient information leaflet for full dosing guidance.

When prepared and taken correctly, Dioralyte rehydration salts should begin to improve dehydration within three to four hours, although some individuals may notice benefits sooner. The solution works by stimulating water and electrolyte absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, helping to restore the body's natural fluid balance. It is important to continue taking the sachets after each episode of diarrhoea until your symptoms resolve.

Dioralyte is primarily indicated for the replacement of fluids and electrolytes lost due to acute diarrhoea and vomiting. However, it can also be helpful in cases of dehydration caused by other factors, such as excessive sweating or illness. If you are unsure whether oral rehydration salts are appropriate for your situation, or if your dehydration is severe, you should speak to a doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Dioralyte is generally well tolerated. However, some individuals may experience mild nausea or vomiting. If you experience any adverse effects or if your symptoms worsen after taking the sachets, you should discontinue use and seek medical advice. Each sachet contains 300mg of sodium, which is equivalent to approximately 15% of your recommended daily sodium intake. If you have been advised to follow a low-sodium diet, speak to your doctor before using Dioralyte.

Dioralyte is suitable for children aged 1 year and above. For infants between 3 months and 1 year, use should only occur under close medical supervision. Dioralyte should not be given to infants under 3 months of age without consulting a doctor. It is particularly important to seek medical attention promptly if a baby or young child shows signs of dehydration, as they can become dehydrated more quickly than adults.

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Dioralyte, as alcohol can increase your risk of dehydration and may interfere with the rehydrating effect of the solution. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is generally advised to eat small, light meals and avoid fatty or spicy foods while recovering from diarrhoea. You can continue to drink water and other clear fluids alongside Dioralyte to help maintain hydration.

NHS – Dehydration: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dehydration/ 
NHS – Diarrhoea and Vomiting: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/diarrhoea-and-vomiting/
Medicines.org.uk – Dioralyte Blackcurrant SmPC: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2773/smpc  
Medicines.org.uk – Dioralyte PIL: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2773/pil  
NICE – Diarrhoea and Vomiting in Children (CG84): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg84