Oral rehydration therapy for diarrhea: Barriers to a simple solution

Objective. This paper reviews the rationale for and constraints of oral rehydration therapy (ORT) for prevention and treatment of dehydration. Methods. The peer-reviewed literature was reviewed for publications pertaining to the use of oral rehydration therapy. Conclusions. Oral rehydration therapy is a safe, effective, inexpensive means of prevention and treatment of dehydration. Barriers to the use of ORT in the developed world exists at many levels but can be overcome. Implications. Physicians and other health care providers can effectively use ORT once they recognize and develop methods to circumvent these barriers.