Pedialyte is a trusted oral rehydration solution (ORS) known for its precise balance of electrolytes and glucose. This balance is crucial because it helps the body absorb fluids and minerals more efficiently than regular water alone. While all Pedialyte products can be safely used by adults, the brand has expanded its lineup to include formulas tailored for adult use. These products often feature different electrolyte concentrations, ingredients, and marketing to appeal to an adult audience.
The Pedialyte Lineup for Adults
Pedialyte AdvancedCare® Plus
This product is formulated with 33% more electrolytes than the standard Pedialyte to help replenish lost fluids and minerals after severe dehydration. It also includes PreActiv® Prebiotics to support digestive health, a welcome feature when dehydration is caused by a stomach illness. It is available in ready-to-drink liters and convenient powder packs.
Pedialyte® Sport
Designed with athletes in mind, Pedialyte Sport contains 5 key electrolytes—sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium, and phosphate—to support fast rehydration and muscle function. With three times the electrolytes and a quarter of the sugar compared to leading sports drinks, it provides optimal replenishment during and after intense workouts. It comes in ready-to-drink liters and portable powder packs.
Pedialyte® Electrolyte Water
For those who prefer a zero-sugar option, Pedialyte offers an electrolyte-infused water. It contains three key electrolytes (sodium, chloride, and potassium) with zinc for immune support, all without sugar or artificial colors. This is ideal for light to moderate dehydration or as a lower-calorie alternative for daily hydration.
Pedialyte® with Immune Support
This option provides rehydration along with key nutrients to support the immune system. It includes zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin B12, making it a comprehensive choice for recovery, especially during illness. Like other formulas, it is available in both liquid and powder forms.
Pedialyte vs. Sports Drinks for Adults
Many adults reach for sports drinks like Gatorade for rehydration, but Pedialyte offers a more balanced solution for certain situations. A key difference lies in the electrolyte and sugar content.
Why Pedialyte often wins for illness-related dehydration
- Lower Sugar: Traditional sports drinks often contain high amounts of sugar, which can draw water into the intestine and potentially worsen diarrhea. Pedialyte's lower sugar concentration is better suited for rehydration during stomach viruses or other illnesses.
- Optimal Electrolyte Ratio: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends specific concentrations of electrolytes and glucose for effective oral rehydration. Pedialyte's formula is closer to these recommendations than most sports drinks.
When a sports drink may be a better option
- Intense, Prolonged Exercise: For endurance athletes engaged in prolonged, high-intensity workouts, the extra carbohydrates in sports drinks can be beneficial for replenishing energy reserves in addition to electrolytes.
Comparison: Pedialyte for Adults vs. Standard Pedialyte
While all Pedialyte products are safe for adults, the company has created specific adult lines with distinct features. The primary Pedialyte products for adults are clearly labeled and formulated to target issues common in adult life, such as intense exercise, immune support, and zero-sugar hydration.
| Feature | Pedialyte for Adults (Sport, Immune, etc.) | Standard Pedialyte (Classic) |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Adults and older children, often for specific purposes | Children and adults, for general illness-related dehydration |
| Electrolyte Content | Often higher (e.g., Pedialyte Sport, AdvancedCare Plus) | Balanced for general use |
| Key Electrolytes | May include extra minerals like magnesium and phosphate for muscle function | Primarily sodium, potassium, and chloride |
| Sugar Content | Varies, with zero-sugar options available | Contains balanced glucose to aid electrolyte absorption |
| Specialized Additives | Can include prebiotics (AdvancedCare Plus) or immune support nutrients (Immune Support) | Basic rehydration formula |
| Primary Use Cases | Hangover recovery, intense exercise, immune support, daily hydration | Rehydration during illness (vomiting, diarrhea) |
How to Choose the Right Pedialyte Product
Choosing the right Pedialyte depends on the cause of your dehydration. If you are experiencing dehydration from a stomach virus with vomiting or diarrhea, the classic formulation or AdvancedCare Plus is an effective choice. For athletes or individuals sweating heavily, Pedialyte Sport provides targeted electrolyte support for muscle function. For daily hydration or a hangover, the zero-sugar electrolyte water or standard formulas are good options.
The Takeaway: More Options Than Ever
Yes, there are Pedialyte drinks specifically for adults, reflecting a market trend that has seen significant growth in adult use. These products go beyond the classic formula, offering targeted solutions for athletes, those needing immune support, or simply seeking low-sugar hydration. While the original pediatric formula remains effective for adults, the specialized versions provide tailored benefits for a variety of adult needs. It is always wise to consult a healthcare professional for specific medical advice, especially for prolonged or severe dehydration. The expansion of the Pedialyte product line means adults have more options than ever to rehydrate effectively and feel better fast.
An Outbound Link
For more detailed nutritional information on oral rehydration solutions, the World Health Organization provides guidelines on recommended formulations for effective hydration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question, "Is there a Pedialyte drink for adults?" can be confidently answered in the affirmative. The company has explicitly developed and marketed several products tailored to adult lifestyles and needs, from athletic performance to immune support. These formulations provide a more effective way to combat dehydration than many common beverages by offering a balanced and optimized electrolyte and sugar profile. Whether recovering from illness, intense exercise, or a late night out, adults can find a Pedialyte product designed to help them rehydrate and recover quickly.
