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Charcoal
Activated Charcoal absorbs the toxic substance ingested, thus inhibiting
gastrointestinal absorption in food poisoning. It also absorbs many toxic
and nontoxic irritants or intestinal gas which cause intestinal discomfort,
and gastric hyperacidity. Charcoal is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal
tract and is excreted via intestinal route. The onset of action is prompt
and duration continual while it remains in the gastrointestinal tract..
INDICATIONS
Charcoal tablet is used for the relief of flatulence and gastrointestinal
discomfort.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Activated Charcoal is contraindicated when specific oral antidotes such as
Methionine are used. When used as an antidiarrheal or antiflatulent,
prolonged use in infants and children under 3 years of age is not
recommended since it may possibly interfere with nutrition..
SIDE EFFECTS/ADVERSE REACTIONS
Activated Charcoal is relatively nontoxic when given by mouth but
gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting and constipation have been
reported. it may color the faeces black, which may be alarming to patient
although medically insignificant.
PRECAUTIONS/WARNINGS
Activated Charcoal diminishes the
action of Ipecacuanha and other emetics when given concomitantly by mouth.
Risk-benefit should be considered when the following medical problems exist:
Absence of bowel sounds; dehydration; suspected parasite-associated
diarrhea; dysentery, acute, characterized by bloody stools and elevated
temperature.
Appropriate fluid and electrolyte
therapy should be given to protect against dehydration. Oral rehydration
therapy which is the use of appropriate fluids including oral rehydration
salts remains the most effective treatment for dehydration due to diarrhoea.
The intake of as much of these fluids as possible is therefore imperative.
| Activated charcoal / Attapulgite is not recommended for
treatment of diarrhoea in children under 6 years of age. |
Activated charcoal / attapulgite may interfere with the absorption of
other drugs, including antibiotics, when administered concurrently.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Activated Charcoal has the potential to reduce the absorption of many drugs
including oral Acetylcysteine; Chocolate syrup or Ice cream or sherbet;
Ipecac; or others oral medications, from the gastrointestinal tract and
simultaneous oral therapy should therefore be avoided..
RECOMMENDED DOSAGE, DOSAGE SCHEDULE AND ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATIONS
2 to 4 tablets daily
AVAILABILITY
Charcoal Tablet
Black coloured and peppermint
flavoured/fragranced round tablet, containing Activated Charcoal 200 mg per
tablet, in packings of 1000's ( for export only );
Blister pack of 2 x 10's/Box, 3 x
10's/Box, 10 x 10's/Box, 12 x 10's/Box and 100 x 10's /Box.
Protect from light
Store in a dry place below 25°C.
Keep container tightly closed
SHELF LIFE
4 years from the date of
manufacture |
