Charcoal

Question 1

Charcoal- names

Answer 1

Acta-Char

Actidose-Aqua

Insta-Char

Liqui-Char

CharcoAid

Question 2

Charcoal- class

Answer 2

adsorbent

Question 3

Charcoal- MoA

Answer 3

1. Binds (adsorbs) toxic substances inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption, leaving less toxic substance in body circulation.
2. Increases fecal elimination of drug/charcoal complex

Question 4

Charcoal- Indication

Answer 4

Suspected ingestion of drugs or chemicals

Question 5

Charcoal- Contra

Answer 5

Patients with a compromised airway – need to minimize chance for aspiration or obstruction

Ingestion of Iron or multi-vitamins

Question 6

Charcoal- S/E

Answer 6

Respiratory: choking

Gastrointestinal: vomiting, black stools, abdominal cramping/bloating

Question 7

Charcoal- Routes

Answer 7

PO voluntarily by patient or via nasogastric/orogastric tube

Question 8

Charcoal- A. Dose

Answer 8

1g/kg PO

Question 9

Charcoal- P. Dose

Answer 9

1g/kg PO

Question 10

Charcoal- EXTRAs

Answer 10

Precautions: Should not be administered immediately after Syrup of Ipecac

Must shake vigorously prior to administration

Do not use charcoal with sorbitol (an added sweetener) in children < 1 yr

Interactions: Will not bind with alcohol

Does not adsorb cyanide, ethanol, methanol, ferrous sulfate, caustic alkali or mineral acids

Most effective if administered within 30 minutes of ingestion