ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/activated-charcoal
Activated Charcoal
ToxiBan, Actidose-Aqua
Drug Class
Routes
Indications
Mechanism of Action
Highly porous carbon that adsorbs toxins in GI tract preventing systemic absorption. Efficacy highest within 1-2 hours of ingestion.
Side effects & warnings
Do NOT use for caustic/corrosive ingestion, petroleum products, or iron/lithium/ethanol (not adsorbed). Aspiration pneumonia risk with vomiting patients. Black stools expected.
Species with Activated Charcoal dosing data (6 dose rules)
Evidence levels across 6 dose rules
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
Backed by 2 published primary sources
- · Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed
- · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Sample dosing (2 of 6 cited rules)
Free-tier preview — dog and cat dosing. Pro and Student unlock all 6 species including reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine.
| Species | Route | Dose | Frequency | Evidence | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog (Domestic) | PO | 1–2 g/kg | once (may repeat half dose q6-8h) | Strong | Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed |
| Cat (Domestic) | PO | 1–2 g/kg | once | Strong | Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed |
Upgrade for Full Details
Upgrade to Pro or Student to access full drug details including mechanism of action, warnings, dose ranges, and frequency.
View PlansMore Antidote drugs
Source citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.