Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Question 1

Generic Name for Charcoaid

Answer 1

Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Question 2

Trade Names for Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Answer 2

Charcoaid, Actidose Aqua

Question 3

Classification of Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Answer 3

adsorbent

Question 4

MOA (pharmacodynamics) of Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Answer 4

• Adsorbs ingested toxins inhibiting their absorption in the GI tract.
• Sorbitol is a sweetener. It also works as a laxative to help eliminate the toxin from the body.

Question 5

Indications for Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Answer 5

Oral poisoning/overdose

Question 6

Dosage for Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Answer 6

0.5 to 1.0 g/kg in 250 ML of water PO, NG/OG

Question 7

Contraindications for Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Answer 7

• Ingestion of a corrosive agent or petroleum distillate (may cause vomiting)
• Altered LOC (oral route)
• Altered LOC and not intubated (OG/NG route)
• If ingested time is past 30 to 60 minutes

Question 8

Precautions for Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Answer 8

• Activated charcoal not effective for: cyanide, mineral acids, caustic alkalis, organic solvents, iron, ethanol, methanol, or lithium poisoning.
• Products that contain sorbitol should be given only under the direct supervision of a doctor because severe diarrhea and vomiting may result affecting electrolytes.
• Powder form should only be mixed with water (instruct patient to drink slowly)
• Minimum dilution of 240 ml of water per 20-30 grams as slurry

Question 9

Notable notes for Activated Charcoal w/Sorbitol

Answer 9

• Acetylcysteine: This drug administered orally will be inactivated by charcoal. You must remove the charcoal by gastric lavage before administering acetylcysteine.
• It actually takes 5-10 times the estimated weight (in grams) of the drug or chemical ingested.
• If patient is vomiting, DO NOT give charcoal until after the last vomiting episode.