Activated Charcoal

Generic Details

Generic Name

Activated Charcoal

Other Names

  • Activated Carbon

Drug Class

  • Adsorbent

Chemical Formula

C

Molecular Weight

12.01 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Acts by adsorbing toxins and chemicals in the gastrointestinal tract.

Indications

  • Drug overdose
  • Poisoning
  • Flatulence
  • Diarrhea

Common Dosage Forms

  • Oral suspension
  • Tablets
  • Powder

Typical Dosage

  • Oral: 25-100 grams for adults

Pediatric Dosage

  • Oral: 25-50 grams for children

Geriatric Dosage

  • Oral: Same as the typical dosage for adults

Side Effects

  • Black stools
  • Constipation
  • Vomiting

Contraindications

  • Intestinal obstruction
  • Bleeding disorders

Pregnancy Category

  • Not absorbed systemically, considered safe for use during pregnancy

Lactation Safety

  • Considered safe during breastfeeding as it is not absorbed systemically

Drug Interactions

  • May decrease the absorption of certain medications if taken simultaneously

Overdose Symptoms

  • Constipation
  • Fecal impaction

Antidote for Overdose

  • There is no specific antidote, treatment is supportive and symptomatic

Storage Conditions

  • Store in a tightly closed container at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Not absorbed systemically
  • Distribution: Does not distribute within the body
  • Metabolism: Not metabolized
  • Excretion: Primarily eliminated unchanged in the feces

Precautions

  • Ensure an adequate amount of water intake to prevent constipation

Warnings

  • Not to be used for long-term treatment of poisoning or overdose
  • May interfere with the absorption of medications if taken simultaneously

Others

  • Activated charcoal may also be used in water filtration systems to remove impurities.