Activated Charcoal (Liqui-Char, Actidose) Flashcards
Charcoal Classification
Antidote
Charcoal Mechanism
Liquid suspension binds (absorbs) toxic substances, thereby inhibiting GI absorption, enterohepatic circulation, and bioavailability.
Drug-charcoal complex is then excreted by the body.
Charcoal Pharmacokinetics
Onset: Immediate
Peak Effects: Unknown
Duration: Unknown
Half Life: Unknown
Charcoal Indicaitons/Field Use
Acute toxic ingestion
Charcoal Contraindications
Ingestion of caustic or petroleum based agent (mineral acid, caustic, alkali, organic solvent, iron, methanol, ethanol)
Charcoal Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Vomitting, diarrhea, ABD cramping, bloating, constipation, black, tarry stool for several days
Charcoal Dose
Adult:
1g/kg (30-100g) PO
Pedi:
1-2g/kg PO
Charcoal Precautions
- Best if given within 30 minutes of overdose
- Administer PO to conscious patient only, if patient is comatose or intubated, administer through NG tube.
Charcoal Drug Interactions
Food or other medications administered concurrently will decrease absorptive capacity of charcoal.