How Are Activated Charcoal and Gastric Lavage Used?
Activated charcoal is a common initial intervention in certain poisonings. It works by adsorbing the toxin in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing its systemic absorption. Gastric lavage, or stomach pumping, can be used in some cases to physically remove the toxin from the stomach, although its use is much less common now due to the risk of complications and the availability of safer alternatives.
