Activated Charcoal

Question 1

Class

Answer 1

Absorbent

Question 2

Mechanism of action

Answer 2

Absorbs substances from G.I. tract

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

Oral poisoning, medication OD

Question 4

Contraindication

Answer 4

Unresponsiveness, ingestion of caustic substances or petroleum distillates, caution with abdominal pain or G.I. obstruction

Question 5

Adverse reactions

Answer 5

Aspiration can cause pneumonia, Black stools, constipation, diarrhea, bowel obstruction, vomitting

Question 6

Drug Interactions

Answer 6

bonds with, and inactivates anything it is mixed with (ipecac)

Question 7

How Supplied

Answer 7

Black powder solution, either 25g/125ml or 50g/250ml bottle

Question 8

Dosage

Answer 8

Adult: 1-2 g/kg PO or NG
Ped: 1-2 g/kg PO or NG

Question 9

Duration of Action

Answer 9

Onset: Immediate
Peak Effect: Depends on GI function
Duration: Until excreted

Question 10

Special Considerations

Answer 10

Pregnancy: C
Often used with mag citrate
Does not absorb cyanide, lithium, iron, lead or arsenic