Charcoal

Question 0

Drug classification

Answer 0

Chemical absorbent

Question 1

Trade name (5)

Answer 1

1. Acta-char
2. Actidose
3. CharcoAid
4. Insta-Char
5. Liqui-Char

Question 2

Actions

Answer 2

Inhibits gastrointestinal absorption of drugs and chemicals

Question 3

Indication

Answer 3

Suspected overdose or accidental ingestion of drugs or chemicals

Question 4

Contraindication (2)

Answer 4

1. Patients with an altered (decreased) level of consciousness or who are at risk for decreased LOC in the field
2. Absent gag reflex

Question 5

Adverse effects (2)

Answer 5

Vomiting

Aspiration

Question 6

Administration

Answer 6

25-50 grams PO as tolerated

Use preparation without Sorbitol in Los Angeles county

Question 7

Pediatrics

Answer 7

0-2 yrs - not recommended

> 2 yrs - same dose as adult

Question 8

Onset

Answer 8

Immediate

Question 9

Duration

Answer 9

24 hours

Question 10

Precaution

Ask patient history of medication ingested

Answer 10

Rationale

Charcoal may be withheld when acetaminophen or TCAs are ingested

Question 11

Precaution

Do not administer if potential for decreased LOC exists. Patient must be able to drink without existence

Answer 11

Rationale

High risk of aspiration if vomiting occurs

Question 12

Precaution

Shake vigorously prior to administration

Answer 12

Rationale

To throughly suspend the charcoal

Question 13

Note

Answer 13

Does not absorbs cyanide, ethanol, methanol, ferrous sulfate (iron supplements) caustic alkali or mineral acids (inorganic acids like arsenic)

Most effective if administered within 30 minutes of ingestion or overdose

The activated charcoal may be administer with or without sorbitol. Sorbitol is a potent cathartic and aids in rapid elimination of ingested drugs or chemicals

Charcoal should never be administer to patients less than 2 years of age due to potential fluid and electrolyte disturbances

Question 14

How supplied

Answer 14

25 grams in 120 mL bottle or tube