Activated Charcoal

Activated Charcoal is a form of carbon that has been processed to have small, low-volume pores that increase the surface area available for adsorption or chemical reactions. Due to its high degree of microporosity, just one gram of activated charcoal has a surface area in excess of 3,000 m², as determined by gas adsorption. It is commonly used in medical applications to treat poisonings and overdoses following oral ingestion. Traditionally, activated charcoal is made from coconut shells, wood, or peat.

Medical Uses

Activated charcoal is widely used in emergency medicine to manage poisonings and overdoses. Its large surface area allows it to adsorb toxins and drugs, reducing their systemic absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. It is most effective when administered within an hour of ingestion. However, it is not universally effective against all toxins. Substances that are not adsorbed by activated charcoal include, but are not limited to, alcohol, heavy metals, and iron tablets.

Indications

Activated charcoal is indicated for the emergency treatment of certain kinds of poisoning or medication overdoses, including, but not limited to, aspirin, acetaminophen, and barbiturates. It is important to note that its use should be part of a comprehensive management plan and not used as a sole treatment.

Contraindications

The use of activated charcoal is contraindicated in patients who have an intact or unprotected airway or in cases where the risk of aspiration is high. It is also not recommended for ingestion of substances that are poorly adsorbed by charcoal, or if the patient has a gastrointestinal obstruction.

Administration

Activated charcoal is administered orally or through a nasogastric tube. The typical dose for an adult is 50-100 grams in cases of poisoning or overdose, while children may receive a dose of 10-25 grams. It can be mixed with water to form a slurry for easier administration.

Side Effects

While generally considered safe, activated charcoal can cause potential side effects, including constipation, black stools, vomiting, or diarrhea. In rare cases, aspiration of charcoal particles into the lungs can occur, leading to respiratory complications.

Mechanism of Action

Activated charcoal works by adsorption, a process where molecules or particles adhere to the charcoal's vast surface area. Unlike absorption, adsorption does not involve the material being taken into the charcoal's structure. This property allows activated charcoal to effectively trap and remove substances from the gastrointestinal tract before they can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Other Uses

Beyond its medical applications, activated charcoal is used in water purification, air purification, and in the cosmetic industry. It is also used in some cases to decolorize sugar and other food products.

Environmental Considerations

While activated charcoal is beneficial for many applications, its production and use must be managed carefully to minimize environmental impact. The sourcing of materials for charcoal production, particularly from wood, can contribute to deforestation if not managed sustainably.