Activated Charcoal ( Actidose, Liqui-char)

Question 0

Mechanism of action

Answer 0

Liquid suspension binds (adsorbs) toxic substances, thereby inhibiting GI absorption, Enterohepatic circulation, and bioavailability. Drug-charcoal complex is then excreted by the body

Question 1

Drug classification

Answer 1

Antidote

Question 2

Onset

Answer 2

Immidiate

Question 3

Peak

Answer 3

Unknown

Question 4

Duration

Answer 4

Unknown

Question 5

Half life

Answer 5

Unknown

Question 6

Indications/ field use

Answer 6

Acute toxic ingestion

Question 7

Contraindications

Answer 7

Ingestion of caustic or petroleum based agent ( mineral acid, caustic alkali, organic solvent, iron, methanol, ethanol)

Question 8

Side effects/ adverse reactions

Answer 8

Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, bloating, constipation, black, tarry stool for several days

Question 9

Dose adult

Answer 9

1g/kg (30-100g) PO

Question 10

Dose pedi

Answer 10

1-2g/kg PO

Question 11

Precautions

Answer 11

Best if given within 30 min of overdose

Administer PO to concious patient only, if patient is comatose or intubated, administer through NG tube

Question 12

Drug on drug interactions

Answer 12

Food or other medications administered concurrently will decrease absorptive capacity of charcoal