Hypotonic solutions hydrate cells as water moves from vascular space to the intracellular space. Examples of when hypotonic solutions are used include to treat hypertonic dehydration, to replace fluids in cellular dehydration states, and to dilute concentrated (high-sodium) serum.

Why hypotonic solution is given for dehydration?

Hypotonic Solutions

This imbalance causes osmotic movement of water from the intravascular compartment into the intracellular space. For this reason, hypotonic fluids are used to treat cellular dehydration.

Why would you use a hypotonic solution?

Hypotonic solution: A solution that contains fewer dissolved particles (such as salt and other electrolytes) than is found in normal cells and blood. Hypotonic solutions are commonly used to give fluids intravenously to hospitalized patients in order to treat or avoid dehydration.