Which route is typically used to administer activated charcoal?

• A. IV infusion
• B. PO or by NG tube
• C. IM injection
• D. Inhalation

Answer: (B)

Activated charcoal is used to adsorb ingested toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, so it must be delivered into the GI lumen. The typical route is oral administration or through a nasogastric (or orogastric) tube as a slurry. This places the charcoal where it can bind toxins before they are absorbed systemically. IV, IM, or inhalation routes would not place charcoal in the gut and therefore are not effective for this purpose. If the patient cannot swallow or is at risk of aspiration, ensure airway protection and/or use an NG/OG tube to administer the slurry.