The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Smecta at decreasing stool weight, when compared to placebo, in the treatment of acute diarrhoea in children.

Inclusion Criteria:

• male
• acute watery diarrhoea defined as at least 3 watery stools per 24 hours
• duration of watery diarrhoea of less than 72 hours and with at least 1 watery stool for the last 12 hours
• dehydration signs requiring oral rehydration according to current WHO guidelines

Exclusion Criteria:

• severe dehydration that needs IV therapy
• presence of gross blood in stools
• fever >39 degrees Celsius