NCTI- Pharmacology- Drug List A- Activated Charcoal

• Acta-Char
• Actidose-Aqua
• Insta-Char
• Liqui-Char
• CharcoAid

adsorbent

Binds (adsorbs) toxic substances inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption, leaving less toxic substance in body circulation; increasing fecal elimination of drug/charcoal complex

Suspected ingestion of drugs or chemicals

• Patients with a compromised airway – need to minimize chance for aspiration or obstructionIngestion of Iron or multi-vitamins
• Caustic acids/alkalis
• Cyanide Poisoning

• Respiratory: choking
• Gastrointestinal: vomiting, black stools, abdominal cramping/bloating

• Should not be administered immediately after Syrup of Ipecac
• Must shake vigorously prior to administration
• Do not use charcoal with sorbitol (an added sweetener) in children < 1 yr

Does not adsorb cyanide, ethanol, methanol, ferrous sulfate, caustic alkali or mineral acids, or lithium

PO voluntarily by patient or PO via nasogastric/orogastric tube

Onset is immediate, peak effect and duration are unknown

• Adult: Initially 1g/kg PO
• Pediatric: Initially 1g/kg PO

• Most effective if administered within 30 minutes of ingestion
• Use very cautiously in patients who cannot protect their own airway