Treatment Options for Cholera

sophia

What treatments are recommended for cholera, and how effective are oral rehydration solutions in saving lives? When should antibiotics or intravenous fluids be considered?

olivia

The main treatment for cholera is rapid rehydration, which replaces the fluids and electrolytes lost through diarrhea. Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the first and most effective therapy—it can save over 90% of lives when started early, even without hospital care. For patients who are severely dehydrated or unable to drink, intravenous (IV) fluids are used to restore fluid balance quickly. Antibiotics such as doxycycline or azithromycin are recommended only for severe cases, as they shorten illness duration and reduce bacterial shedding. Mild cases usually recover with ORS alone. Overall, timely rehydration—especially with ORS—is the most crucial and life-saving treatment for cholera.

sophia

The primary treatment for cholera is rapid rehydration to replace lost fluids and salts. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are highly effective and can save most patients’ lives if given promptly, as they restore the body’s fluid balance. In severe cases where dehydration is extreme or the patient cannot drink, intravenous (IV) fluids are necessary to quickly restore circulation. Antibiotics are recommended for moderate to severe cases to shorten the duration of illness and reduce fluid loss, but they are secondary to rehydration. With timely treatment, the survival rate for cholera patients is extremely high.