Activated charcoal
charcoal
What it isNonabsorbed toxin sequestrant that adsorbs many drugs in the gut; selected acute oral poisonings.
Why this oneIt can broadly reduce absorption when given promptly, unlike antidotes that target only one toxin.
What limits it⚑ It does not bind iron, lithium, alcohols, or hydrocarbons; aspiration can be lethal, so withhold if the airway is unprotected.
FDA label
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| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency adsorption of swallowed poisons | All (as directed by a health professional) | 20–30 g PO in ≥8 oz liquid ×1 | 20–30 g; repeat dose immediately if possible | Undefined |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Shake well before use.
- Give in a minimum of 8 oz of liquid (or squeeze contents into a cup with ≥4 oz liquid to drink), or via charcoal administration set.
- Repeat dose immediately, if possible.
- Keep trying to contact a poison control center, emergency medical facility, or health professional.
- Keep patient active and moving; save the container of the poison.
Available strengths
- susp 25 g/240 mL
- susp 208 mg/mL
Contraindications
- Persons who are not fully conscious
- Do not give until after the patient has vomited, unless directed by a health professional
- Ingestion of turpentine, corrosives (lye/alkalies, strong acids), or petroleum distillates (kerosene, gasoline, paint thinner, cleaning fluid, furniture polish) — unless directed by a health professional
Cautions
- For emergency use; use under direction of a poison control center or health professional.
- In case of overdose or poisoning, contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
Cost
Activated charcoal (CHARCOAL)
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/unit | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 g/240 mL | susp | per unit | not offered | |
| 208 mg/mL | susp | per unit | not offered |
NADAC is a voluntary CMS survey of what retail community pharmacies pay for the drugs they stock. Activated charcoal is dispensed outside retail pharmacies, so it rarely appears on surveyed invoices.
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskUseless for iron, lithium, alcohols and hydrocarbons
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Defining liabilityAspiration injury; gastrointestinal obstruction