Activated Charcoal

Question 1

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Class

Answer 1

Adsorbent

Question 2

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Mechanism of action

Answer 2

• Adsorbs toxic substances from the GI tract
• Onset of action is immediate

Question 3

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Indications

Answer 3

• Most oral poisonings and medication overdoses
• Can be used after evacuation of poisons

Question 4

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Contraindications

Answer 4

• Oral administration to comatose pt
• If pt ingested corrosives, caustics, petroleum distillates (ineffective and may induce vomiting)
• Simultaneous administration with other oral drugs
• Use caution in pt experiencing abd Px of unknown origin or known GI obstruction

Question 5

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Adverse reactions/side effects

Answer 5

• May induce naseau and vomiting
• If aspirated, can induce fatal form of pneumonitis
• Constipation, black stools, & bowel obstruction
• Diarrhea

Question 6

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Drug interactions

Answer 6

• Bonds with and generally inactivates what ever it is mixed with (eg, syrup of ipecac)

Question 7

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Dosage and administration

Answer 7

• Adult & Ped: 1 to 2 g/kg PO or nasogastric tube
• Note: if not premixed slurry, dilute with 1 part charcoal/4 parts water

Question 8

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Duration of action

Answer 8

• Onset: Immediate
• Peak Effect: Depends on GI function
• Duration: Will act until excreted

Question 9

Activated Charcoal (EZ-Char, Actidose, Liqui-Char)

Special considerations

Answer 9

• Pregnancy safety: Category C
• Often used in conjunction with magnesium citrate
• Must be stored in a closed container
• Mix well before administration
• Does not absorb:
  
  • cyanide
  • lithium
  • iron
  • lead
  • arsenic