Activated charcoal dose for adults is:

• A. 5-10 grams
• B. 100-150 grams
• C. 25-50 grams
• D. 1-5 grams

Answer: (C)

Activated charcoal works by adsorbing many ingested toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, helping prevent absorption. In adult emergency care, the usual dose is 25 to 50 grams given as a slurry with water. This range provides enough surface area to bind a variety of toxins while remaining tolerable for most patients. Smaller amounts, such as 1–5 grams or 5–10 grams, are typically insufficient to adsorb a meaningful amount of toxin. Very large doses, like 100–150 grams, aren’t standard in prehospital care due to risks (vomiting and aspiration) and because they’re not usually necessary. Remember that charcoal isn’t effective for all substances and is most useful within a short time window after ingestion and when an airway can be protected.