Activated Charcoal (Actidose, Liquichar)

Question 1

Drug Classification

Answer 1

Antidote

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Liquid suspension binds (adsorbs) toxic substances, thereby inhibiting GI absorption, enterohepatic circulation,and bioavailability

The drug-charcoal complex is then excreted by the body

Question 3

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 3

• Onset of Action- Immediate
• Peak Effects- Unknown
• Duration of Effects- Unknown
• Half-Life- Unknown

Question 4

Indications/Field Use

Answer 4

Acute toxic ingestion

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

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

Question 6

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Answer 6

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

Question 7

Dose

Answer 7

Adult:
1g/kg (30-100g) PO
Pedi:
1-2g/kg PO

Question 8

Precautions

Answer 8

• Best if given within 30 minutes of an overdose

- Administer PO to conscious pt only, if pt is comatose or intubated, administer through NG tube

Question 9

Drug-Drug Interaction

Answer 9

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