When Activated Charcoal Should Not Be Used

Suspected poisoning or overdose

Suspected poisoning or overdose is a medical emergency. Do not attempt to manage it at home. Get emergency medical care immediately, and take the container or packaging of whatever was swallowed with you if you can.

Activated charcoal for poisoning should only be used when directed by an appropriate healthcare professional or poison service. It does not bind many common poisons, its usefulness depends heavily on timing and circumstances, and giving it to someone who is drowsy, vomiting or not fully alert risks aspiration — charcoal entering the lungs — which can be dangerous.

Children

We do not recommend routine use in children. If you are considering activated charcoal for a child, speak to a pharmacist, doctor or other qualified health professional first and follow the product label. Keep the pack out of reach of children.

Check with a professional first if

Some people should get individual advice before using activated charcoal at all.

• You take any regular or prescribed medicine.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• You have a known digestive condition, or have had bowel surgery or an obstruction.
• You have ongoing or unexplained digestive symptoms.

Seek urgent medical attention for

Some symptoms need professional assessment straight away, not a home remedy.

• Difficulty breathing.
• Drowsiness, confusion or altered consciousness.
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhoea.
• Blood in vomit or stool.
• Any suspected poisoning or overdose.