Gut health
Activated charcoal
Also called: charcoal
Very porous carbon that binds chemicals.
- Why people take it
- Gas, detox, hangover.
- What the evidence says
- Used in hospitals for some poisonings; no evidence for detox or hangovers.
- How it is usually taken
- Usually 500 mg to 1 g for gas; keep 2 hours apart from medicines.
- Be careful
- Blocks absorption of medicines and nutrients; can cause constipation.
- Medicines it can interact with
- Binds and blocks almost any medicine taken at the same time, including the contraceptive pill.
Other gut health
Common questions
What is Activated charcoal?
Very porous carbon that binds chemicals.
Why do people take Activated charcoal?
Gas, detox, hangover.
Does Activated charcoal work?
Used in hospitals for some poisonings; no evidence for detox or hangovers.
How much Activated charcoal do people take?
Usually 500 mg to 1 g for gas; keep 2 hours apart from medicines.
Is Activated charcoal safe?
Blocks absorption of medicines and nutrients; can cause constipation.
Does Activated charcoal interact with medicines?
Binds and blocks almost any medicine taken at the same time, including the contraceptive pill.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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