Frequently Asked Questions
When to use, how much to take & answers to the most common questions.
Firstly, water is the best hydration fluid to consume on a daily basis, as part of a healthy, well-balanced diet. However, if you experience dehydration there are many rehydration drinks available. Oral rehydration solutions (such as Hydralyte) are clinically formulated to contain the correct balance of fluid and electrolytes. This allows for faster and more effective absorption of fluid and electrolytes by the body, and as a result, dehydration can be corrected very quickly.
In the Hydralyte range, there are ready to drink solutions, powder packets and effervescent tablets. When these are consumed according to the directions for use on packaging, they are all equally effective to prevent and relieve dehydration.
To maximize hydration, your body needs a specific formulaic balance of salt, glucose, and water. This ideal formula can access small intestine and rush water directly into the bloodstream, allowing for WAY more hydration. This activation of your Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter (or pump) is why you’ll feel the effects of Hydralyte quickly.
Water only absorbs so much fluid. That’s why it’s not enough.
An oral rehydration solution must also have the correct tonicity to be effective. Hydralyte is hypotonic vs. your body’s cells – it has a higher concentration of water molecules. Therefore, when the sodium-glucose pump is activated, water will flow through.
Hydralyte is an oral rehydration solution clinically formulated to contain the correct balance of fluid and electrolytes to hydrate very quickly. The loss of fluids and electrolytes through sweat, vomit, pee, diarrhea and other bodily fluids can upset the balance of fluid and electrolytes in your body, causing you to not feel your best. When you drink Hydralyte to relieve dehydration, you may also relieve the symptoms and begin to feel better faster.
Short answer is: everyone! You can use Hydralyte at the gym, the office, home, car or anywhere in between. Most of our customers use the drinks, tablets, and powders to:
Replenish the body when sick from flu, cold or food poisoning (vomiting, fever and/or diarrhea)
Recover from an intense workout or exercise
Find relief from hangovers (Yup, those morning-afters we know too well)
Prevent and relieve dehydration caused by long days outside in hot weather
Hit the ground running after traveling, either by plane or car
Hydrate quickly throughout busy days or work sessions
Yes, Hydralyte is family-friendly for both kids and adults alike. That’s one reason we were so compelled to create this product. We wanted an option that was great for us (and way better to our adult taste buds!) that would work great for our kids, too.
If your child is under a year, please check with your pediatrician (or their nurse) to receive recommendations on dosing.
Yes, Hydralyte is gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO, dairy-free and caffeine-free.
Water is the best hydration fluid to consume on a daily basis, as part of a healthy, well-balanced diet. However, if you experience dehydration oral rehydration solutions (such as Hydralyte) are clinically formulated to contain the correct balance of fluid and electrolytes. This allows for faster and more effective absorption of fluid and electrolytes by the body, and as a result, dehydration can be corrected very quickly.
Small amounts of sugar are actually necessary to activate hydration (hello sodium-glucose pump!). The problem is most sports drinks and beverages like electrolyte-enhanced water have far too much or not enough sugar, which actually will not hydrate you.
Hydralyte products contain 3 or 4 grams of sugar, the minimal amount needed to help your body absorb water quickly.
The short answer: yes!
Hydralyte is an oral rehydration solution specifically designed to assist in safe, rapid rehydration, making it the ideal addition to staying well hydrated on the ketogenic diet. There are just 5g of carbohydrates in a 200ml serving of Hydralyte, making this beverage keto friendly.
The signs and symptoms of mild to moderate dehydration will occur when as little as 2% of the body weight is lost through fluid. The body requires the correct balance of fluid and electrolytes (salts and minerals) to maintain everyday functions and preserve health. Internally, the body has special mechanisms which help to keep this balance in check. However, the loss of fluid and electrolytes through urine, sweat, vomit, diarrhea and other bodily fluids can upset this balance, and in some cases, a person may experience dehydration.
Some of the signs and symptoms of dehydration include:
Increased thirst
Fatigue / Lethargy
Dizziness
Headaches
Dark or decreased urine output
Sticky or dry mouth
Loss of skin elasticity
Irritability
Try to recognize the common signs and symptoms of dehydration. If and when they occur, start using an oral rehydration solution, Hydralyte, as soon as possible.
Remember that dehydration can be of particular concern for the elderly and for young children.
If you are experiencing dehydration, you need to act fast and drink an effective rehydration solution containing electrolytes. The best options are Hydralyte’s scientifically formulated electrolyte solutions as they contain the correct balance of sugar and salt, to ensure that you rapidly restore what the body has lost. Oral rehydration solutions are formulated based on the World Health Organization guidelines for rapid and effective rehydration. It is important to start drinking these products as soon as you notice any signs of dehydration (such as dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue), and sip small amounts at regular intervals to enhance absorption (better than drinking a large bottle all at the one time. You should also monitor yourself for the signs and symptoms of more severe dehydration (such as fainting or very low blood pressure) – if these happen you should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
When you are planning to exercise, you should ensure that you start in a well hydrated state. To ensure you are well hydrated, aim to drink 8 glasses of water a day. Then, during exercise your fluid intake should match your fluid outlay. A good tip is to take 2 to 3 sips of Hydralyte’s electrolyte solution while performing sustained moderate to vigorous physical activity – this will help to prevent potential dehydration.
To rapidly rehydrate the body, you need to consume a hydration beverage that contains the correct balance of glucose and electrolytes for fast and effective absorption. The World Health Organization suggests an oral rehydration solution (such as Hydralyte), which provides fast and effective restoration of both fluid and electrolytes. In situations where you are fluid and electrolyte depleted (such as in cases of stomach flu, heavy sweating or other illnesses) an oral rehydration solution may provide fast and effective rehydration.
To rapidly rehydrate the body, you need to consume a hydration beverage that contains the correct balance of glucose and electrolytes for fast and effective absorption. The World Health Organization suggests an oral rehydration solution (such as Hydralyte), which provides fast and effective restoration of both fluid and electrolytes. In situations where you are fluid and electrolyte depleted (such as in cases of stomach flu, heavy sweating or other illnesses) an oral rehydration solution may provide fast and effective rehydration.
This is not a very fun topic, we know, but it is incredibly important. Diarrhea is a common cause of moderate dehydration. Dehydration does not itself cause diarrhea.
Electrolyte Freezer Pops
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Place Hydralyte Freezer Pops in the freezer
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When frozen, cut open one end with clean scissors
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Push the frozen Hydralyte Freezer Pop from the uncut end
- Slowly consumer small amounts until Suck small amounts until consumed
Hydralyte Freezer Pops may be consumed unfrozen.
Recommended usage for dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea:
Age | Take in first 6 hours (freezer pops) | Maximum per day (freezer pops) |
Less than 1 year | 3-6 | 16 (34 fl oz) |
1-3 years | 6-9 | 24 (50 fl oz) |
3-6 years | 9-14 | 32 (68 fl oz) |
6-12 years | 14-24 | 43 (90 fl oz) |
12-Adult | 24-32 | 64 (135 fl oz) |
After the first day, consume a daily volume less than the maximum per day, as directed by your doctor.
Note: 1 freezer pop is 62.5 mL
Recommended usage for dehydration due to fever and heavy sweating:
Children 10-13 years | Take up to 13 freezer pops (27 fl oz) per day for up to 3 days or as directed by your doctor. |
13 years to Adult | Take up to 22 freezer pops (47 fl oz) per day for up to 3 days or as directed by your doctor. |
If you are taking Hydralyte due to vomiting or diarrhea, be sure to consult your doctor promptly those issues continue for more than:
- 12 hours in children under 3 years
- 24 hours in children 3 years to adults
If you have kidney disease or a kidney condition, are taking heart or blood pressure medication, are pregnant, or have any other medical conditions, discuss with your healthcare provider before use.
We cannot advise you to use the product beyond its expiry date.
There are many benefits of electrolytes for dogs and cats. Unfortunately we only made Hydralyte specifically for humans, so although we cannot advise you to give Hydralyte to your best (pet) friend, we do suggest you consult your veterinarian.
If you'd like to try Hydralyte frozen, we highly recommend you try our Freezer Pops. Freezing tablets or powders may make the product less effective. Please follow directions for use on Hydralyte packaging.
Drink Hydralyte when thirsty or exhibiting signs of dehydration, or while symptoms persist. However, seek medical advice if vomiting or diarrhea persists for more than:
- 12 hours in children under 3 years
- 24 hours in children aged between 3 years to adults
If you are taking Hydralyte for a chronic medical condition, ensure you are seeking the advice of your doctor regarding the long-term management of your condition.
Hydralyte contains 1.5-1.6 glucose monohydrate per 4fl oz (100 ml). (Equivalent to 1.45 g Glucose anhydrous)
For people with diabetes this amount of glucose may or may not be considered safe depending on your blood glucose control and medication use. This applies to both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Always consult your healthcare professional before adding a new product to your diet.
When unwell with diarrhea or vomiting, it is important to replace your body’s lost electrolytes, even for people with diabetes. Hydralyte can help provide important electrolytes, even for people with diabetes. Hydralyte can help provide important electrolytes and a small amount of glucose to help maintain blood glucose levels. Monitoring of blood glucose levels during any illness is very important.
If you have vomiting and diarrhea with considerable fluid loss, you should consult your healthcare professional and discuss monitoring and management of your glucose levels.
The powder may clump over time, particularly if held at temperatures above 86 °F (30 °C). This is a natural process due to a small quantity of moisture held in the ingredient crystals (e.g., glucose).
If the powder is clumped, but quite dry, there is no quality defect. It will dissolve in water and the active ingredients remain effective.
If the powder appears moist or very sticky, we can provide you with a replacement.
Hydralyte is generally safe to use in children 1-3 years of age; however, you should consult the child’s healthcare professional prior to use. Refer to product packaging for usage directions (see question 26).
Hydralyte in all children should be used with the supervision of a healthcare professional. Please refer to product packaging for usage directions in children under 12 months of age.
For very young infants it is advised to give small quantities of Hydralyte slowly and regularly (e.g., 1 teaspoon every 10 minutes). Ensure you have seen a healthcare provider promptly.
Continue with breast or formula-feeding of infants between sips of Hydralyte.
Directions and Dosing
Dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea | ||
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Age | Take in first 6 hours (fl oz) | Maximum per day (fl oz) |
Less than 12 months | 7 – 14 | 34 |
1 – 3 years | 14 – 20 | 50 |
3 – 6 years | 20 – 30 | 68 |
6 – 12 years | 30 – 50 | 90 |
12 – Adult | 50 – 68 | 135 |
Guidance:
During the first 6 hours:
- Aim to consume the recommended amounts as per the provided tables.
- Do not rapidly drink the required amount all at once – sip small amounts regularly (i.e.. 1 – 2 sips every 15 minutes).
After 6 hours:
- Aim to slowly sip the required amount over the 6 hour period. (Note – if using the powder or effervescent tablets, only make up as required as they should be discarded after 6 hours if not refrigerated / 24 hours if refrigerated).
- Continue to sip small amounts regularly (i.e., 1 – 2 sips every 15 minutes) until your symptoms subside (i.e., vomiting and diarrhea stops) or until you no longer have the signs and symptoms of dehydration*. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose as indicated in the provided tables.*Common signs and symptoms of dehydration:
- Increased thirst
- Fatigue / Lethargy
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Dark yellow urine, or decreased urine output
- Sticky or dry mouth
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Irritability
Dehydration due to fever and heavy sweating | ||
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Children 10 – 13 years | Take up to 4 x 7 fl oz per day for up to 3 days or as directed by your doctor | |
13 years to Adult | Take up to 7 x 7 fl oz per day for up to 3 days or as directed by your doctor |
Directions and Dosing
Dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea | ||
---|---|---|
Age | Take in first 6 hours (fl oz) | Maximum per day (fl oz) |
Less than 12 months | 7 – 14 | 34 |
1 – 3 years | 14 – 20 | 50 |
3 – 6 years | 20 – 30 | 68 |
6 – 12 years | 30 – 50 | 90 |
12 – Adult | 50 – 68 | 135 |
Guidance:
During the first 6 hours:
- Aim to consume the recommended amounts as per the provided tables.
- Do not rapidly drink the required amount all at once – sip small amounts regularly (i.e.. 1 – 2 sips every 15 minutes).
After 6 hours:
- Aim to slowly sip the required amount over the 6 hour period. (Note – if using the powder or effervescent tablets, only make up as required as they should be discarded after 6 hours if not refrigerated / 24 hours if refrigerated).
- Continue to sip small amounts regularly (i.e., 1 – 2 sips every 15 minutes) until your symptoms subside (i.e., vomiting and diarrhea stops) or until you no longer have the signs and symptoms of dehydration*. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose as indicated in the provided tables.*Common signs and symptoms of dehydration:
- Increased thirst
- Fatigue / Lethargy
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Dark yellow urine, or decreased urine output
- Sticky or dry mouth
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Irritability
Dehydration due to fever and heavy sweating | ||
---|---|---|
Children 10 – 13 years | Take up to 4 x 7 fl oz per day for up to 3 days or as directed by your doctor | |
13 years to Adult | Take up to 7 x 7 fl oz per day for up to 3 days or as directed by your doctor |
Patients should not take more Hydralyte than is advised on the packaging. Please refer to Hydralyte packaging for usage directions.
If you're pregnant or nursing, congratulations! Hydralyte is safe to consume if you're pregnant or nursing but we always recommend you consult with your doctor.
We know, the saying 'use under medical supervision’ can seem scary, but Hydralyte was created as a medical food first & foremost.
As such, it is a food formulated to be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional for the dietary management of dehydration.
We have a sneaky suspicion that you'll love Hydralyte so much that leftovers will be few and far between. However, in the case that you don't sip all of this deliciousness at once:
- Hydralyte Ready to Drink Electrolyte Solutions – Refrigerate after opening and discard 1 month after opening.
- Hydralyte Electrolyte Powders and Hydralyte Effervescent Electrolyte Tablets – 2 hours after preparation (or 24 hours after preparation if refrigerated).
We also provide all of this information on our label/packing, so please be sure to take a look if you have any further questions.
The dosage depends on a few factors, such as age and weight. Here are the basics of how much Hydralyte to use.
Tired or have a headache, start small
If a headache creeps up or you feel some fatigue, start with a packet or two (if in powder form). See how you feel from there. It’s best to start with the least amount and increase gradually.
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Fairly thirsty or dehydrated already
If you’ve barely drunk water, had a really sweaty workout or just got in from a very hot day, the middle dose of Hydralyte (halfway on the spectrum of what’s on package) is probably perfect. |
Serious fever, sickness, diarrhea or vomiting
If you’re having intense symptoms, your body has likely lost a lot of fluid already. You likely need the higher level of doses recommended on the package, but do consult your doctor for severe or “serious” dehydration. Learn more here. |
- Remove two tablets from tube and replace the cap tightly. Dissolve the tablets into 200 mL (7 fl oz) of water.
- Sip slowly and frequently while symptoms persist. Discard unused solution after 2 hours, or 24 hours if refrigerated.
- Always dissolve in water. Never place tablet directly into mouth.
- Do not use if cap seal is broken. Replace the cap tightly after use.
For full directions of use (for vomiting and diarrhea or fever or heavy sweating) refer to the product page here.
Online:
You can buy Hydralyte right here on our site! You can also find Hydralyte in all major drug retailers across Canada, including Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart, Rexall, Loblaw, Jean Coutu and London Drugs.
In-store:
Need Hydralyte now? You can find at us at multiple retailers throughout the country, please check out our store page to find one near you!
The main ingredients in Hydralyte are glucose, sodium, potassium, chloride and citrate. Each Hydralyte product format and flavor contains different ingredients. Please refer to our product packaging or visit the relevant product pages below for the full list of ingredients:
- Hydralyte has the correct balance of glucose and salt to hydrate the body quickly, which means each product has the minimum amount of calories as possible:
- All Natural Electrolyte Powder have 20g per serving
- Effervescent Electrolyte Tables have 20g per serving
- Ready-to-Drink Electrolyte Drinks have 15g per serving
- Electrolyte Freezer Pops have 5g per serving
- Oral Electrolyte Powders have 15g per serving
Hydralyte Oral Electrolyte Powder and Hydralyte Effervescent Electrolyte Tablets DO NOT contain any preservatives.
Hydralyte Ready-to-Drink Electrolyte Solutions contain small amounts of potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate to prevent product spoilage. Both of these ingredients are found naturally in fruits such as oranges, lemons and cranberries, and help protect the fruit from mold.
The source of glucose in Hydralyte is corn (also called maize).
Hydralyte All-Natural Powder Sticks and Lemonade flavor Electrolyte Tablets contain stevia leaf extract. All other Hydralyte products contain sucralose, a modified form of table sugar.
Hydralyte does not contain any animal products. It is suitable for vegetarians.
Hydralyte does not contain any phenylalanine.
Shipping Policy
We want you to receive your Hydralyte order as soon as possible and make every effort to process your order quickly so you can start feeling your best! Hydralyte offers free UPS Ground shipping on all tablet or powder orders & free shipping on liquids or freezer pops over $25 in the contiguous United States only.
Orders are shipped the same business day if ordered before 2pm EST. Standard shipping is 3-5 business days. Priority shipping is our fastest shipping method and is 1-3 business days. Orders placed on weekends or national holidays will ship on the next business day.
Shipping for customers in Hawaii and Alaska has been upgraded to Priority shipping at a cost of $10 per order. The default shipping fee is applied for addresses in the states of Hawaii and Alaska at checkout.
If you have any questions about your package arrival, please reach out to orders@hydralyte.com.
Return Policy
Once you try Hydralyte, we know you'll feel the hydrating effects which is why we have a 30-day return policy.
To start a return, you can contact us at orders@hydralyte.com. If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted.
You can always contact us for any return question at orders@hydralyte.com.
Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right. We may require photographic evidence to help document the issue and process a replacement. These requests must be receive within 7 days of package delivery date.
Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like custom products (such as special orders or personalized items). Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.
Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.
Refunds
Refunds will not be provided for shipping costs, accessories like water bottles, bags, or promotional items.
Please note: Customer satisfaction guarantee is valid for up to 30-day of the purchase date. Refund processing times may vary and require 5-10 business days depending on your banking institution, credits may not appear on your account right away. You may need to check with your bank or credit card company if you think there may have been an error, to ensure the refund is processing. If you continue to have issues after 10 days, please contact us by e-mailing orders@hydralyte.com.