Activated charcoal (medication)

Medical use of activated charcoal

Activated charcoal is a form of carbon processed to have small, low-volume pores that increase the surface area available for adsorption or chemical reactions. It is commonly used in medical settings to treat poisonings and overdoses following oral ingestion.

Medical uses

Activated charcoal is primarily used in the treatment of certain types of poisoning and overdose. It works by adsorbing the toxin in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. It is most effective if administered within one hour of ingestion of the toxin.

Poisoning

Activated charcoal is used in cases of poisoning by substances that are adsorbed by charcoal. These include many drugs and toxins, such as acetaminophen, aspirin, and tricyclic antidepressants. It is not effective for all types of poisonings, such as those involving alcohol, cyanide, or heavy metals.

Overdose

In cases of drug overdose, activated charcoal can be used to reduce the absorption of the drug in the gastrointestinal tract. It is often used in conjunction with other treatments, such as gastric lavage or whole bowel irrigation.

Mechanism of action

Activated charcoal works by adsorbing substances in the gastrointestinal tract. The large surface area of the charcoal allows it to bind to a wide variety of substances, preventing their absorption into the bloodstream. The bound substances are then excreted from the body in the feces.

Administration

Activated charcoal is typically administered orally in the form of a suspension. It can be given as a single dose or multiple doses, depending on the type and amount of toxin ingested. The dose is usually based on the patient's body weight.

Side effects

Common side effects of activated charcoal include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects, such as aspiration pneumonia if the charcoal is inhaled into the lungs.

Contraindications

Activated charcoal is contraindicated in patients with an unprotected airway, those who are at risk of gastrointestinal perforation, and in cases where the ingested substance is not adsorbed by charcoal.

Related pages

• Poisoning
• Overdose
• Gastric lavage
• Whole bowel irrigation

Gallery

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  Activated charcoal tablets

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