Activated Charcoal

Question 1

Classification:

Answer 1

• Antidote
• Adsorbent

Question 2

Action:

Answer 2

• When certain chemicals and toxins are in proximity to the activated charcoal, the chemical will attach to the surface of the charcoal and become trapped

Question 3

Indications:

Answer 3

• Toxic ingestion

Question 4

Adverse Effects:

Answer 4

• Nausea/ vomiting
• Constipation/ diarrhea
• If aspirated into lungs, charcoal can induce potentially fatal form of pneumonitis

Question 5

Contraindications:

Answer 5

• Ingestion of acids
• Alkalis
  -Ethanol
• Methanol
• Cyanide
• Ferrous sulfate/ other iron salts
• Lithium
• Coma
• GI obstruction
• Known minimally toxic ingestion

Question 6

Dosage (Adult):

Answer 6

• 50 -100 g/dose

Question 7

Dosage (Pediatric):

Answer 7

• 1-2 g/kg