Activated Charcoal Sorbitol
Activated Charcoal/Sorbitol is an emergency gastrointestinal decontamination agent used to treat acute poisonings and drug overdoses. Activated charcoal binds to ingested toxins in the stomach and intestines to prevent their absorption into the bloodstream, while sorbitol acts as a cathartic to accelerate the removal of the charcoal-toxin complex through the bowels. This combination is primarily administered in emergency departments and toxicology settings.
Emergency treatment for poisonings that uses charcoal to bind toxins and sorbitol to expel them from the body.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 215009
- Generic
- Activated Charcoal / Sorbitol
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Acute oral poisoning or drug overdose when presented within the appropriate timeframe, including overdoses of many prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and environmental toxins. Not effective for caustics, alcohols, lithium, heavy metals, or corrosive substances.
Activated charcoal has a large surface area that adsorbs (binds) toxins and drugs in the GI tract, preventing their absorption into circulation. Sorbitol is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestines, increasing bowel motility to eliminate the charcoal-toxin complex faster and reduce the risk of constipation.
Most effective when given within 1-2 hours of ingestion; delayed administration reduces efficacy. May cause vomiting, abdominal cramps, constipation, or diarrhea. Contraindicated in patients with compromised airways, GI perforation, or after ingestion of caustic substances. Should not be used routinely for self-poisoning due to aspiration risk.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy