Fact Checked
Activated charcoal is known to absorb a variety of chemicals and drugs. It is important to note that adsorption is a process where atoms and molecules move from a bulk phase onto a solid or liquid surface. This simply means that the toxic substances attach to the surface of the charcoal.
Since charcoal is not digested, it remains within the digestive tract and eliminates the toxin during a bowel movement.
How to provide activated charcoal
Activated charcoal can be given orally to an individual who is conscious and alert. Generally, it is a blackened liquid beverage.
- If the individual starts vomiting, another dosage might be given via a nasogastric or even an orogastric tube.
Activated charcoal is usually administered by a healthcare professional. - In case the individual loses consciousness, endotracheal intubation might be required which is a procedure where are tube is inserted via the mouth down into the trachea. This allows delivery of oxygen and protects the airway and lungs from the gastric content which lessens the risk for vomiting and choking.
- Activated charcoal is usually administered by a healthcare professional. The doctor will determine the dosage or amount to provide based on the weight of the individual and the amount of poison ingested.
- The doctor will also determine when and if an extra dose is administered by monitoring the blood levels of the poison. Other symptoms that the doctor will monitor include nausea and vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain and serious heart issues. In some cases, several doses of activated charcoal can be given if the individual ingested large amounts of long-acting, sustained-release drugs.
- In some cases, if the blood levels of the poison remain in an elevated level, the doctor might suggest kidney dialysis. Take note that dialysis might be the ideal way to eliminate the toxin from the bloodstream.
