Activated charcoal

Gas absorbent
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Activated charcoal is a gas absorbent found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Unienzyme. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: charcoal

What it is used for

Helps absorb gas and ease bloating.

How it works

Charcoal with a huge surface area that binds gas and some poisons in the gut.

How to take it

For gas: as directed after meals. For poisoning: only on medical advice. Keep 2 hours apart from other medicines.

Common side effects

  • Black stools
  • Constipation

Get medical help straight away if

Vomiting or drowsiness after a poisoning (call for help)

Be careful

Can make other medicines work less well: take them 2 hours apart. Turns stools black.

Other medicines and interactions

Binds and blocks almost any medicine taken at the same time, including the pill.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered acceptable.

Combination medicines that contain Activated charcoal (1)

Unienzyme

Common questions

What is Activated charcoal used for?

Helps absorb gas and ease bloating.

How does Activated charcoal work?

Charcoal with a huge surface area that binds gas and some poisons in the gut.

How should I take Activated charcoal?

For gas: as directed after meals. For poisoning: only on medical advice. Keep 2 hours apart from other medicines.

What are the side effects of Activated charcoal?

Common: Black stools, constipation. Get help straight away for: Vomiting or drowsiness after a poisoning (call for help).

Does Activated charcoal interact with other medicines?

Binds and blocks almost any medicine taken at the same time, including the pill.

Is Activated charcoal safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered acceptable.

Does Activated charcoal need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Activated charcoal?

Unienzyme.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.