Optimum Charcoal

Common charcoal comes from wood, coconut shell, peat, coal, or petroleum. "Optimum Charcoal" is a processed type of common charcoal that has pores which can trap other chemicals and stop them from being absorbed by the body.

Optimum Charcoal is used to treat certain kinds of chemical poisonings.

Optimum Charcoal has also been used in alternative medicine to help with gas and indigestion.

It is not clear if Optimum Charcoal is effective in treating any medical condition. The FDA has not approved the medicinal use of this product. This medicine should not replace any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Optimum Charcoal is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards for many herbal products, and some supplements 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.

Optimum Charcoal may also be used for reasons not listed in this product guide.

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

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

If you decide to use Optimum Charcoal, follow the directions 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). Measure a dose with the provided measuring device (not 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 you swallow them.

To treat a poisoning in someone who has taken ipecac syrup to induce vomiting, wait until the person has vomited before giving Optimum Charcoal.

Do not try to treat poisoning in someone who is having seizures or is not fully conscious. Seek emergency medical help right away.

To treat indigestion or gas, Optimum Charcoal is usually taken just before meals or after eating foods that might 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 using.

Do not use this product without medical advice to treat poisoning. Optimum Charcoal can cause more serious issues if used for poisoning from certain chemicals like 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, inform 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 have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, Optimum Charcoal is thought to be likely safe for most people when used for a short period of time, and possibly safe when used long term.

Optimum Charcoal may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

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

Common side effects of Optimum Charcoal may include:

• constipation; or
• black stools.

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

Optimum Charcoal is used as needed. If you have a dosing schedule and miss a dose, skip it. Do not take two doses at the same time.

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

• Avoid drinking alcohol.

Optimum Charcoal can make it more difficult for your body to absorb other medicines that 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 affect Optimum Charcoal, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using.