Activated Charcoal

Question 1

Activated Charcoal - Class

Answer 1

Antidote adsorbant

Question 2

Activated Charcoal - Actions

Answer 2

• Adsorbs toxins by chemically binding to them

* Decreases or prevents GI absorption of toxins

Question 3

Activated Charcoal - Indications

Answer 3

Oral ingestion of poison or drugs following emesis or when emesis is contraindicated

Question 4

Activated Charcoal - Dosage/Route

Answer 4

50 gm PO or NG tube

Question 5

Activated Charcoal - Side Effects

Answer 5

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Black stools
• Constipation

Question 6

Activated Charcoal - Contraindications

Answer 6

• Ingestion of acids, petroleum distillates, alkalis, iron, or drugs that cause rapid onset of seizures (e.g. camphor, tricyclics)
• Absent gag reflex
• Decreased LOC
• Uncooperative

Question 7

Activated Charcoal - Special Information

Answer 7

• Sorbitol is a cathartic agent and will cause frequent & voluminous bowel movements
• Use of charcoal with sorbitol not recommended for pediatric pts or pts with fructose intolerance
• Mix with 6-8 oz water and admin as slurry (if not already mixed), use of a straw is recommended
• Most effective if administered within 30 min following ingestion
• Onset of action is within minutes
• Not effective in poisonings due to cyanide, corrosives, ethanol, methanol, & organic solvents
• Should only be administered after emesis has completely subsided in cases where emesis is indicated
• Do not mix with milk, ice cream, or other dairy products that will decrease the absorption capacity

Question 8

Activated Charcoal - Pediatric Note

Answer 8

• Refer to Pediatric Drug Guide

* 1 gm/kg to a max of 50 gm PO or NG tube