Evidence supporting the use of: Activated charcoal
For the health condition: Poisoning (general)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Activated charcoal is scientifically validated as a treatment for certain types of poisoning. It is widely used in emergency medicine to manage acute oral poisonings and overdoses. Activated charcoal works by adsorbing (binding) toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing their systemic absorption. Its porous structure provides a large surface area for adsorption, making it effective for many drugs and chemicals, particularly those with large molecular weights and those that are not highly polar or acidic.

Numerous clinical guidelines, including those from the American Academy of Clinical Toxicology (AACT) and the European Association of Poisons Centres and Clinical Toxicologists (EAPCCT), support the use of activated charcoal in specific poisoning scenarios. It is most effective when administered within one hour of ingestion of the toxic substance. However, it is not effective for all poisons—substances such as alcohols, heavy metals, acids, and alkalis are poorly adsorbed by activated charcoal.

Multiple randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews confirm its efficacy in decreasing the absorption of certain drugs and toxins if given promptly. It is generally considered safe but can cause adverse effects such as vomiting, aspiration, and, rarely, bowel obstruction. In summary, activated charcoal is a scientifically validated intervention for the management of many, but not all, types of acute poisoning.

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