Drug Overdoses: Activated Charcoal Flashcards
1
Q
How does activated charcoal work?
A
Certain drugs/poisons bind onto the surface of it so it can no longer be absorbed and safety excreted.
2
Q
Adsorption
A
Drug goes onto activated charcoal
3
Q
Absorption
A
Drug goes into bloodstream
4
Q
Well adsorbed drugs are considered to be lipid or water soluble?
A
Lipid-soluable
5
Q
Exampled of well adsorbed drugs
A
TCAs Benzodiazepines Opioids NSAIDs Antihistamines Therophylline Digoxin
6
Q
How should and shouldn’t you administer activated charcoal?
A
Mix with 6-8 ounces of water or juice May give with chocolate May give anti nausea meds first It may cause vomiting DO NOT give with milk DO NOT give if patient is not awake and alert
7
Q
Why is activated charcoal used?
A
To treat overdoses
8
Q
Do you give activated charcoal before or after the drug has been fully absorbed?
A
BEFORE (usually within 1 hour of ingestion)
