Which is a common adverse effect of activated charcoal?

Which is a common adverse effect of activated charcoal?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Vomiting
• C. Rash
• D. Weight gain

Answer: (B)

Activated charcoal works by binding many ingested toxins in the gut to prevent absorption. The most common adverse effect is vomiting, because the charcoal can irritate the stomach lining and trigger the gag reflex. Vomiting is clinically important since it increases the risk of aspiration if the airway isn’t protected. Rashes, hypertension, and weight gain aren’t typical adverse effects of activated charcoal, though rare hypersensitivity reactions can occur; they are not as common or as clinically relevant as vomiting.

Activated charcoal works by binding many ingested toxins in the gut to prevent absorption. The most common adverse effect is vomiting, because the charcoal can irritate the stomach lining and trigger the gag reflex. Vomiting is clinically important since it increases the risk of aspiration if the airway isn’t protected. Rashes, hypertension, and weight gain aren’t typical adverse effects of activated charcoal, though rare hypersensitivity reactions can occur; they are not as common or as clinically relevant as vomiting.