Activated Charcoal - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Information about Activated Charcoal

Generic Name : Activated Charcoal
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Activated Charcoal are provided here.

Pronunciation : ahk - dih - vey- dihd char - kol

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Activated Charcoal, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

Trade Names/Brand Names of Activated Charcoal

India :

International :

Charcodote, Kaolinpec, Kaopectate, Diarrest, Donnagel, EZ -Char

Overview of Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is used to treat emergency poisoning. Activated charcoal is the treated version of normal charcoal, whose pores can trap toxic chemicals and hinder its absorption by the body.

Why is Activated Charcoal Prescribed? (Indications)

Activated charcoal is prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe cases of poisoning where gastrointestinal decontamination (removal of toxin from gastrointestine) is needed. It may relieve diarrhea, indigestion, and hangovers.(1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Activated Charcoal

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When should Activated Charcoal not be taken? (Contraindications)

• Activated charcoal is contraindicated in patients with unprotected airways as it may lead to aspiration.
• Avoid taking this medication in cases of intestinal obstruction (blocked intestine) and swallowing disorders.
• Activated charcoal should not be taken when corrosive substances such as strong acids, boric acid, lithium, iron and petroleum products (kerosene, paint thinner, and cleaning fluid) are ingested.
• It is not recommended in cases of gastrointestinal damage, bleeding, corrosion, and/or perforation.(2^✔ ✔Trusted Source
  The Use of Activated Charcoal to Treat Intoxications
  
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How should Activated Charcoal be taken?

• Activated charcoal is said to be most effective when taken within one hour after the ingestion of poison.
• Activated charcoal is available in the form of tablets, capsules, powder, and suspensions.
• Activated charcoal can be taken orally or administered via tubes that connect the mouth to the stomach (orogastric tubes) or the nose to the stomach (nasogastric tubes).
• Activated charcoal can be suspended in any liquid, however it is best in still water.
• If a patient is unable to swallow activated charcoal, it can be given through a stomach tube.
• Carefully follow the instructions specified on the medication label.

Missed a Dose?

If you miss a dose, it is better to skip and take the next dose correctly. Do not double the dose.

What are the side effects of Activated Charcoal?

•  General: Headache, tiredness
•  Gastrointestinal: Black stools (Melena), nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (4^✔ ✔Trusted Source
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What are the other precautions for Activated Charcoal?

• Avoid using activated charcoal if you suffer from gastrointestinal blockage.
• Avoid intake of alcohol while on this medication, as it may reduce the effectiveness of this medication.
• Inform your doctor if you have any conditions that can hinder the passage of food through the intestine.

What are the Drug Interactions of Activated Charcoal?

Activated charcoal decreases the absorption of medications and other substances in the stomach and intestines.

Birth control pills:
The effectiveness of the birth control pill may be decreased when taken along with activated charcoal. To avoid this interaction, take the medicine at least 3 hours after or 12 hours before taking birth control pills.

Syrup of ipecac:
Activated charcoal can bind the syrup of ipecac in the stomach and reduce its efficacy.(4^✔ ✔Trusted Source
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What are the storage conditions for Activated Charcoal?

Store at room temperature (20 to 25°C).
Store this medication away from heat and moisture, in a airtight container.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.