Hypodermoclysis in the home and long-term care settings.

Hypodermoclysis is the subcutaneous administration of isotonic infusates to correct short-term fluid and electrolyte balances. It has recently begun to regain recognition as a safe and effective alternative to intravenous fluid hydration in the mild to moderately dehydrated patient, particularly in the areas of palliative care and long-term care. Hypodermoclysis is easy to establish and maintain and has fewer complications than intravenous hydration. The medication hyaluronidase can be injected as a spreading agent to facilitate subcutaneous fluid absorption. Hypodermoclysis has the potential to help reduce the $1 billion annual US cost of avoidable hospitalizations for dehydration.