What substance is commonly used to treat dehydration in patients?

Normal saline is commonly used to treat dehydration in patients because it is an isotonic solution that can help restore the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body. It consists of sodium chloride (salt) dissolved in water at a concentration similar to that of the body’s own fluids, making it effective for intravenous hydration.

When a patient is dehydrated, their body has lost water and important electrolytes, which can lead to serious complications. Normal saline replenishes the volume of circulating blood and helps maintain blood pressure, making it a primary choice in clinical settings for treating dehydration, especially in cases of loss due to vomiting, diarrhea, or insufficient fluid intake.

Other substances, such as caffeine and calcium supplements, do not play a role in fluid replacement and can even contribute to further dehydration or imbalances. Magnesium sulfate is used for different medical indications, like treating specific electrolyte imbalances or seizures, but it is not typically used for general dehydration. Thus, normal saline remains the standard and effective treatment for dehydration, highlighting its importance in medical treatment protocols.