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Activated Charcoal

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SIMPLE EXPLANATION

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What is it and what does it do?

 

Activated charcoal can be used as an emergency treatment for certain kinds of poisoning. It can bind to certain substances and prevent those substances from being absorbed by the body. However, it should be noted that activated charcoal is ineffective against acids, alcohols, alkalis, corrosive agents, or petroleum products. This includes but is not limited to boric acid, cleaning fluid, coal oil, fuel oil, gasoline, iron, kerosene, lithium, lye, and paint thinner.

DETAILED EXPLANATION

 

Action: binds to certain pharmaceutical drugs and poisons such as organophosphates, preventing

             absorption by the body.

 

Availability: prescription; over the counter; supervised use in medical facility recommended.

 

Avoid: use as hangover remedy.

 

Class (Chemical): organic compound.

 

Class (Functional): adsorbent.

 

Contraindications: altered level of consciousness; unprotected airway.

 

Dose: Adult: 25-100g mixed with water.

          Child: 1g/kg mixed with water.

 

Interactions: decreased absorption of acetaminophen, digoxin, theophylline, tricyclic

                       antidepressants.

 

Notes: call Poison Control immediately, seek professional medical help.

 

Routes: PO.

 

Side Effects: black stools; black tongue; constipation; diarrhea; nausea; vomiting; risk of

                      vomit aspiration leading to pneumonitis.

 

Uses: certain poisonings.

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