Effective oral rehydration therapy depends on the active absorption of dextrose and glycine in the small intestine. This absorption is directly linked with water and sodium movement. The net result of Lectade Plus treatment, therefore, is a reversal of fluid and electrolyte loss incurred during diarrhoea.

The formulation of Lectade Plus has been specifically designed to improve both water absorption from the intestine and the correction of acidosis. The increased dose of dextrose provides more energy for the calf, but without overloading the dextrose-absorbing capacity of the intestine or interfering with rehydration.