This table is a guide for rehydration therapy for severe dehydration. Note that infants, because of their special needs, are considered separately from older children and adults. It should not be necessary to administer intravenous fluids for longer than three or at most four hours, and during this period ORS should be offered to the patient. Intravenous fluids should be stopped when the patient can drink well or if the eyes become puffy (overhydration - see B19). The precise total volume and rate of intravenous administration should be individualized depending on the patient's response.