Gastroenteritis in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, is an infection of the stomach and intestines. Causes may include bacteria, parasites, or viruses. Rotavirus is one of the most common causes of gastroenteritis in children.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Informed consent

is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that your child may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your child's medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done to your child. Make sure all of your questions are answered.

Intake and output

may be measured. Healthcare providers will keep track of the amount of liquid your child is getting. They also may need to know how much your child is urinating. Ask healthcare providers if they need to measure or collect your child's urine.

An IV

is a small tube placed in your child's vein for giving medicine or liquids. Your child will receive an IV if he or she is very dehydrated.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• ondansetron
• Vibramycin
• Doxy 100
• Monodox
• Doryx

View more treatment options

Your child may be weighed

at about the same time every day. Healthcare providers will compare his or her weight from day to day. This helps healthcare providers see how much body fluid your child has lost or gained.

Medicines:

• Antibiotics treat a bacterial infection.
• Parasite medicines treat an infection caused by parasites.

RISKS:

Diarrhea, vomiting, or fever can cause dehydration. Dehydration can be life-threatening for infants and small children. Without treatment, the infection can spread to your child's other organs, such as his or her kidneys.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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