What ingestions warrant activated charcoal administration?

Abstract

EVIDENCE-BASED ANSWER Very few. Activated charcoal does not decrease the length of emergency department or hospital stay, mortality, vomiting, or intensive care unit (ICU) admission in patients with toxic ingestions (SOR: B, single unblinded RCT). Activated charcoal should not be administered routinely, but may be considered if a patient has ingested a potentially toxic amount of a poison known to be absorbed by charcoal, has ingested the substance within 1 hour of presentation, and has a patent or protected airway. Substances not absorbed by activated charcoal include hydrocarbons, acids, and alkalis (SOR: C, expert opinion).