Non-glucose oral rehydration solution does it make a good thing better?

501 VOLUME 46__JUNE 17, 2009 Diarrheal disease continues to be a significant burden in terms of childhood morbidity and mortality despite tremendous progress in many fields. The 2007 Indian Academy of Pediatrics guidelines on management of acute diarrhea(1) emphasized three points: (i) low-osmolarity oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the universal rehydration solution for all ages and types of diarrhea; (ii) oral zinc therapy is recommended in all types of diarrhea; and (iii) probiotics and antisecretory agents are not recommended based on current knowledge. These guidelines are in line with preceding WHO recommendations(2) and based on robust evidence. Feasibility of implementation in routine practice makes it the cornerstone of management in our country.