What is the sodium concentration range of homemade or commercial oral rehydration solutions?

• A. 90-120 mmol/L
• B. 60-90 mmol/L
• C. 40-60 mmol/L
• D. 120-150 mmol/L

Answer: (B)

Sodium concentration in oral rehydration solutions is tuned to optimize water absorption in the gut while keeping electrolyte balance safe. The small intestine uses sodium to drive water uptake, especially when glucose is present, so a middle-ground sodium level supports effective rehydration without pushing sodium too high or too low.

The typical target range used in guidelines and commercial/ homemade ORS is about 60–90 mmol/L, with around 75 mmol/L being common in many formulations. This range reflects a balance: it supports efficient sodium-glucose–coupled water absorption and minimizes risks like hyponatremia or hypernatremia. If the solution has too little sodium, rehydration may be less effective; if it has too much, it can raise the risk of hypernatremia and gastrointestinal intolerance.

So the best choice is the 60–90 mmol/L range.