Activated Charcoal

Information About Activated Charcoal

Uses of Activated Charcoal

Charcoal is commonly used to treat abdominal pain and bloating.

How Activated Charcoal Works

Charcoal works by inhibiting the gastrointestinal absorption of toxic substances or irritants. When mixes with sorbitol, it acts as a laxative and provides a hyperosmotic environment which then causes catharsis.

Side Effects of Activated Charcoal

Diarrhea, Constipation, Vomiting, Black stools, Bowel obstruction, Hemorrhage, Hypotension, Blackening of teeth and mouth, Thrombocytopenia, Hypoglycemia

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Activated Charcoal Related Warnings

Alcohol Safe

It is safe to consume alcohol with charcoal. Some studies reported that charcoal adsorb alcohol poorly and there are no differences in the concentrations of plasma alcohol with or without charcoal.

Pregnancy Limited Data

Charcoal has not been assigned to any FDA pregnancy category. There is no human or animal studies on the usage of charcoal in pregnancy.

Lactation Safe If Prescribed

It is safe to use charcoal during breastfeeding.

Driving Generally Safe

Charcoal usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Kidney Safe If Prescribed

It is safe to use charcoal in patients with renal impairment as it is not systemically absorbed.

Liver Safe If Prescribed

It is safe to use charcoal in patients with liver impairment as it is not systemically absorbed.