Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a type of medicinal substance used to treat people with conditions ranging from gastrointestinal (GI) problems to drug overdoses. It is made from carbon, usually from coal, wood, or coconut shells, and is then treated by introducing oxygen to it, hence “activated” charcoal. It is sometimes referred to as activated carbon.

Uses

Activated charcoal is used to treat a range of conditions, including drug overdoses, chemical poisoning, and GI issues like gas, diarrhea, and constipation. It is most effective when given within a few hours after ingestion of a toxin, and can help reduce the amount of poison absorbed by the body. It can also help reduce cholesterol levels, whiten teeth, and act as an antidote to some forms of heavy metal poisoning.

Brand Name	Activated Charcoal
Type
Weight
Generic	Activated Charcoal
Manufacturer
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Activated charcoal works by trapping toxins and chemicals in its millions of tiny pores, and prevents their absorption into the bloodstream. It is believed to have a number of mechanisms of action, including adsorption, which is the binding of toxins to its surface, and absorption, which is the binding of toxins in its porous structure.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Activated charcoal is usually given as a single dose, and can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours to be effective. The time depends on the type and amount of toxin ingested, its chemical structure, and the amount of activated charcoal given.

Absorption

Activated charcoal is generally not absorbed from the GI tract, although some absorption may occur at mucosal surfaces. However, this is not thought to be clinically relevant as it does not affect the effectiveness of the product.

Route of Elimination

Activated charcoal is eliminated from the body by the GI tract and through the fecal route. It is not metabolized or absorbed, and is simply excreted in the stools.

Dosage

Diarrhoea:

Adult: 2-4 tab tds-qds.
Children: ½ adult dose.

Poisoning:

Adult: 2-4 tab/kg body weight
children: 3-4 tab/kg body weight

Flatulence:

Adult: Disintegrate 1-2 tab. Repeat every 2 hr.

The usual dosage of activated charcoal is 10-25 g taken orally for adults, and 4-8 g for children. Higher doses may be necessary depending on the size, weight, and condition of the individual, and the type and amount of toxin ingested. It is typically administered as a powder, suspension, or tablet.

Administration

Activated charcoal is usually administered orally via a liquid suspension or tablet. It should be administered as soon as possible after ingestion of the toxin and repeated if necessary. It should be taken with a full glass of water or other clear liquid.

Side Effects

Side effects of activated charcoal may include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. It may also cause blockage of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly if the person has had surgery involving the GI tract. It is also known to cause black stools and black tongue.

Toxicity

Activated charcoal is generally considered to be non-toxic, although it has the potential to cause gastric disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It may also interfere with the absorption of certain medications.

Precautions

Activated charcoal should not be taken with medications or supplements, as it may interfere with the absorption of those substances. It should also not be taken if there is a possibility of aspiration, and should not be given to anyone who is unconscious. It is also important to check with a healthcare provider before use, particularly if the patient has a GI condition.

Interactions

Activated charcoal can interact with certain medications, including antacids, theophylline, and some antibiotics. It can also reduce the effectiveness of some medications, including birth control pills and insulin. Always check with your doctor before taking activated charcoal.

Disease Interaction

Activated charcoal can interact with certain diseases or conditions, such as diverticulosis, gastrointestinal blockage, and dysphagia. It should be used with caution in these cases.

Drug Interactions

Activated charcoal can interact with certain medications, such as antacids, theophylline, and certain antibiotics. It can also reduce the effectiveness of some medications, including birth control pills and insulin. Always check with your doctor before taking activated charcoal.

Food Interactions

Activated charcoal can reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It is typically taken an hour before or after a meal. Food and drink should be avoided for one hour after taking activated charcoal.

Pregnancy Use

Activated charcoal has not been studied in pregnant women and should be used with caution. Consult your doctor before taking this medication during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

Activated charcoal has not been studied in breastfeeding mothers and should be used with caution. Consult your doctor before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

Acute overdose with activated charcoal may lead to nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Treatment usually involves supportive care and resin-based antidotes.

Contraindications

Activated charcoal should not be used in people who have had recent surgery or endoscopy involving their GI tract, as it can cause a blockage. It should also not be used in people who have ingested hydrocarbons such as gasoline or kerosene, or alcohols like methanol or isopropyl.

Use Directions

Activated charcoal should be taken as soon as possible after ingestion of a toxin or poison. It should be taken with a full glass of water or other clear liquid and may be taken with other antidotes if necessary. It should not be taken with or immediately after a meal as it may interfere with the absorption of food. Check with your doctor before using.

Storage Conditions

Activated charcoal should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and kept away from moisture. It should be stored in its original container, away from other medications, supplies, and food products.