activated charcoal
Adsorbent
Activated charcoal is a fine black powder that binds and adsorbs some specific ingested toxins that may still be present in the GI tract following emesis. Once bound to the activated charcoal, the combined complex is excreted from the body.
Immediate
Continual while in the GI tract
Many ingested poisonings.
Corrosives, caustics, or petroleum distillates (relatively ineffective, and may induce vomiting).
May indirectly induce nausea and vomiting. May cause constipation.
Syrup of ipecac is adsorbed by activated charcoal.
25 g (black powder)/125 ml bottle (200 mg/ml)
50 g (black powder)/250 ml bottle (200 mg/ml)
Approximately 1-2 g/kg body weight (larger amounts if food is also present), prepared in a slurry and administered PO or slowly by gastric tube.
1-2 g/kg
15-30 g
Pregnancy Safety: not established
Activated charcoal may also be known as "AC"
Is relatively insoluble in water
May blacken feces
Must be stored in a closed container.
Different charcoal preparations may have varying rates of adsoprtion
Does not adsorb all drugs and toxic substances (for example, cyanide, lithium, iron, lead, and arsenic)