Comparison of Activated Charcoal and Industrial Charcoal in Prevention of GI Absorption of Diazepam

Background: GI decontamination is required frequently in management of intoxicated patients. Activated charcoal is used for this purpose normally. Is it possible that powdered industrial charcoal is used as a substitute? Present study was conducted to determine efficiency of industrial charcoal in prevention of absorption of diazepam, compared to activated charcoal. Method: 30 Sprague–dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 equal groups. 20 mg/kg diazepam was given orally to all 3 groups. No GI decontamination was performed for the control group. Activated and industrial charcoal (1 g/kg dissolved in 10 ml of water) was administered for other two groups. The urinary concentration of diazepam was used for evaluation of level of the drug absorption in the animals. Results: The mean urine concentration of diazepam was considerably lower in groups taking charcoal, compared control group. However the concentration in the group taking activated charcoal was lower than the concentration in the group taking industrial charcoal. Conclusion: Results of present study suggest that industrial charcoal can be used as a substitute for activated charcoal, though with a little lower efficacy for absorption of drugs and toxins.