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activated charcoal

Antidote (Adsorbent)

Antidote (Adsorbent)
CDSCO approved
EXCRETION
not curated
INTERACTIONS
2 major
SEVERE in our sources
PREGNANCY
not curated
Top interactionssee all 4
  • Mycophenolate MofetilSevereDatabaseDDInter
  • Mycophenolic AcidSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Acts by virtue of its adsorptive property.

Drug interactions

Mycophenolate Mofetil
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: absorption

Source: DDInter

Mycophenolic Acid
Severe
Database

Drug interaction classified as: absorption

Source: DDInter

Alkaloids
Moderate
Textbook

Prevention of alkaloid absorption.

Used in alkaloidal poisonings.

Source: KDT 7e · p58

Acetylcysteine
Moderate
Database

Activated charcoal can adsorb acetylcysteine, reducing its bioavailability and efficacy, especially when given orally for paracetamol overdose.

If activated charcoal is administered, it should be given at least 1-2 hours before or after oral acetylcysteine to minimize adsorption. In cases of severe paracetamol overdose, IV acetylcysteine is preferred if activated charcoal has been given.

Source: DDInter

8 additional low-confidence interactions hidden — those rows lack a documented mechanism or management plan in our sources.

Other Unclassified drugs

Ask House about activated charcoal

Continue into a citation-backed clinical answer with the drug context already attached.

Sources: KD Tripathi 7e·Verified: 2026-05-10 · House clinical team