Charcoal Antidote
Uses of Charcoal Antidote
Charcoal Antidote is used in the emergency treatment of certain kinds of poisoning. It helps prevent the poison from being absorbed from the stomach into the body.
How Charcoal Antidote Works
Charcoal Antidote 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 Charcoal Antidote
Diarrhea, Constipation, Vomiting, Black stools, Bowel obstruction, Hemorrhage, Hypotension, Blackening of teeth and mouth, Thrombocytopenia, Hypoglycemia
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
It is safe to use Charcoal Antidote in patients with renal impairment as it is not systemically absorbed.
Alcohol Safe
It is safe to consume alcohol with Charcoal Antidote. Some studies reported that Charcoal Antidote adsorb alcohol poorly and there are no differences in the concentrations of plasma alcohol with or without Charcoal Antidote.
Pregnancy Limited Data
Charcoal Antidote has not been assigned to any FDA pregnancy category. There is no human or animal studies on the usage of Charcoal Antidote in pregnancy.
Driving Generally Safe
Charcoal Antidote usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Safe If Prescribed
It is safe to use Charcoal Antidote in patients with liver impairment as it is not systemically absorbed.
Lactation Safe If Prescribed
It is safe to use Charcoal Antidote during breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
