Charcoal Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 31, 2025.

Usual Adult Dose for Gastrointestinal Decontamination

Single dose: 50 to 100 grams orally
Multiple dose: 50 to 100 grams orally every 4 to 6 hours

Usual Adult Dose for Flatulence

200 mg oral capsules: 1 or 2 capsules orally daily

Charcocaps(R): 2 capsules orally; repeat every 2 hours as needed
Maximum dose: 16 capsules per day

Usual Pediatric Dose for Gastrointestinal Decontamination

Under 1 year old, single dose: 1 gram/kg orally
Under 1 year old, multiple dose: 1 gram/kg orally every 4 to 6 hours

1 to 12 years, single dose: 25 to 50 grams orally
1 to 12 years, multiple dose: 25 to 50 grams orally every 4 to 6 hours

12 and older, single dose: 50 to 100 grams orally
12 and older, multiple dose: 50 to 100 grams orally every 4 to 6 hours

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Precautions

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

• There are no absolute contraindications for use in poisoning, but it is not equally effective for all toxins.
• Use with caution, if at all, if corrosive agents have been ingested as activated charcoal may obscure endoscopic visualization of esophageal and gastric lesions caused by the corrosive.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

See also:

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer