NATIONAL
CALIFORNIA
VENTURA
policies
Not in VCEMS policy
category
mechanism
- Adsorbs toxic substances, thus inhibiting GI absorption and preventing or limiting systemic toxicity.
indications
- Activated charcoal is an adsorbent that may be considered in the management of poisonings when GI decontamination of drugs or chemicals is indicated.
contraindications
- Patients with an unprotected airway (eg, CNS depression without intubation)
dosing
Adult:
Oral: 1 g/kg; maximum 50 g
Pediatric:
Oral: 1 g/kg; maximum 25 g
administration
The activated charcoal container should be agitated thoroughly before administration. The container should be rinsed with a small quantity of water to ensure that the patient has received all of the activated charcoal.
onset
Starts working immediately, but less effecting the longer administration is delayed from the toxic ingestion.
duration
Active while in GI tract.
notes
- Administration with beverage: Flavored beverages can enhance charcoal's palatability; however, the addition of some flavoring agents are known to reduce the adsorptive capacity and, consequently, the efficacy of activated charcoal. If possible, avoid these adjunctive agents in preference to activated charcoal-water slurries. Nevertheless, these flavoring agents do not completely compromise the effectiveness of activated charcoal and may be necessary in some circumstances to enhance compliance.
- Antiemetics: IV antiemetics may be required to reduce the risk of vomiting.
dosage form
Oral liquid: 25 g/120 mL (120 mL); 50 g/240 mL (240 mL)
adverse reactions
- Gastrointestinal
- Abdominal distention
- Appendicitis, constipation, discoloration (black) of teeth, mouth and stools
- Intestinal obstruction
- Vomiting
- Respiratory
- Aspiration