Activated charcoal

Patient sheet

Activated charcoal is a product obtained by the calcination and transformation of organic materials (e.g., peat, wood, coconut shells, petroleum). The main property of activated charcoal is its ability to bind certain unwanted substances in the digestive tract so they can be eliminated more easily. When used as a natural health product, activated charcoal is usually taken orally in the form of capsules. Activated charcoal can also be used to treat certain cases of poisoning, but this application is not covered here.

Other names

• Charcoal
• Activated carbon

Common uses

• Diarrhea
• Intestinal gas (flatulence)
• Hangovers
• Upset stomach

This non-exhaustive list presents the most frequent applications.

Recommended doses of natural health products may vary depending on several factors, including which part of the plant is used and the product's form. To avoid confusion regarding dosage, read the information on the product's packaging and seek advice from your health care provider.

Side effects

In addition to its intended effects, this product may occasionally cause side effects:

• Constipation
• Intestinal discomfort
• Black stool

This non-exhaustive list presents the most frequent and relevant side effects. If you think you're experiencing side effects, speak to your health care provider.

Warnings

Natural health products are not without risk. They may be incompatible with certain health issues or interact with your medications. Always speak with a health care professional before taking this product, especially in the following cases:

• You're taking prescription or over-the-counter medications
• You're pregnant or breastfeeding

Always inform your health care providers of your existing health issues, and make sure to mention any medications that you're taking, either on a regular or irregular basis, including non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and natural health products.

If you're taking a medication for a specific health condition, do not attempt to replace it with a natural health product without first consulting a health care professional, such as your doctor or pharmacist.

General notes

Make sure to inform your health care providers if any of the following applies:

• You have allergies (e.g., medication, food)
• You're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or you're breastfeeding
• You use tobacco, cannabis or cannabis derivatives, or recreational drugs

Keeping a list of your current medications with you at all times is strongly recommended. It may come in handy if you need to see a health care professional or call emergency services.

As with medication, store your natural health products out of reach of children and pets, and return unused or expired products to the pharmacy for safe disposal.