Activated Charcoal
Class
Adsorbent
Description
A fine, black powder (premixed as a slurry), that adsorbs many drugs and
chemicals; acts by binding toxic substances thereby inhibiting GI absorption,
enterohepatic circulation and therefore bioavailability.
Indications
Acute ingested poisons.
Contraindications
Altered mental status, inability to swallow, poisonings by cyanide, mineral
acids, caustic alkalies, organic solvents, iron, ethanol, methanol.
Adverse Reactions
Vomiting, abdominal cramping, abdominal bloating, constipation, (diarrhea if
mixed with
sorbitol).
Drug Interactions
May decrease effects of all oral medications.
Special Considerations
1. To be administered only per medical control or poison control request.
2. May improve palatability by adding a small amount of concentrated fruit juice
or chocolate powder to slurry.
DO NOT give before or after ipecac syrup
Note: Feel free to discuss this medication and your experiences in administering it in an emergency or hospital based setting on our message board
