Insta-Char

Common charcoal is made from wood, coconut shell, peat, coal, or petroleum. "Insta-Char" is a processed form of common charcoal that has pores that can trap other chemicals and stop them from being absorbed by the body.

Insta-Char is used to treat certain types of chemical poisonings.

Insta-Char has also been used in alternative medicine to help with gas and indigestion.

It is not clear whether Insta-Char works for any medical condition. The FDA has not approved this product for medicinal use. This medicine should not be used instead of medication prescribed by your doctor.

Insta-Char is often sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal compounds do not have regulated manufacturing standards, and some supplements sold in the market have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be bought from a trustworthy source to reduce the risk of contamination.

Insta-Char may also be used for purposes not mentioned in this product guide.

Call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 before using Insta-Char to treat a poisoning.

When thinking about using activated charcoal, talk to your doctor. You may also want to consult a practitioner who knows about herbal/health supplements.

If you decide to use Insta-Char, follow the instructions on the package or those given by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than what is recommended on the label.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid). Use the measuring device provided to measure a dose (do not use a kitchen spoon).

Swallow the tablet or capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.

The granules or powder must be mixed with liquid before swallowing.

To treat a poisoning in a person who has taken ipecac syrup to induce vomiting, wait until the person has vomited before giving Insta-Char.

Do not try to treat poisoning in someone who is having seizures or is not fully conscious. Get emergency medical help immediately.

To treat indigestion or gas, Insta-Char is usually taken right before meals or after eating foods that could cause stomach discomfort. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Follow all instructions on the product label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medications you are taking.

Do not use this product without medical advice to treat poisoning. Insta-Char may cause more serious problems if used to treat poisoning caused by certain chemicals such as turpentine, lye, strong acids, kerosene, gasoline, paint thinner, cleaning fluid, or furniture polish.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product for other conditions if you have ever had:

• slow digestion; or
• a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines).

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If possible during an emergency, tell your medical caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, Insta-Char is considered likely safe for most people when used for a short time, and possibly safe when used long term.

Insta-Char may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you experience:

• severe constipation;
• severe heartburn or sore throat; or
• dehydration -- dizziness, confusion, feeling very thirsty, reduced urination or sweating.

Common side effects of Insta-Char may include:

• constipation; or
• black stools.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Insta-Char is used as needed. If you are following a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

• Avoid drinking alcohol.

Insta-Char can make it difficult for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth. Take your dose of this medicine at least 1 to 2 hours before or after taking other medicines by mouth.

Other drugs may impact Insta-Char, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using.