ACTICARB Tablets

What is ACTICARB

ACTICARB is a medicinal tablet formulation primarily containing two active ingredients: Kaolin (heavy - Bolus alba) and Activated Charcoal. It is commonly used as an adsorbent agent in the treatment of various gastrointestinal conditions.

• Kaolin (Bolus alba): A naturally occurring clay with absorbent properties, which helps to bind toxins, bacteria, and excess fluids in the digestive tract.
• Activated Charcoal: A highly porous substance with strong adsorptive capacity, capable of binding to gases, toxins, and other harmful substances within the gut.
• Purpose: ACTICARB is mainly used to manage acute diarrhea, dyspepsia, and mild gastrointestinal disturbances by reducing intestinal gas and adsorbing toxins.
• Benefits: It provides symptomatic relief from diarrhea, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort, improving patient comfort without significantly affecting normal bowel function.
• Form: Available as tablets, making it convenient for oral administration.
• Use in Toxicology: Activated charcoal in ACTICARB is also utilized in certain cases of poisoning to adsorb toxins and prevent systemic absorption when administered promptly.

How to use ACTICARB

Proper administration of ACTICARB ensures effective relief and minimizes potential side effects.

• Administration Route: Taken orally with water, preferably after meals to maximize effectiveness and reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
• Dosage: Follow the prescribed dose from your healthcare provider; typical adult dose varies depending on the condition being treated.
• Swallowing: Tablets should be swallowed whole; do not crush or chew as this may reduce their adsorptive capacity.
• Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake while using ACTICARB to prevent constipation.
• Timing: If taken for poisoning, administer as soon as possible after toxin ingestion, ideally within one hour, under medical supervision.
• Duration: Use should be limited to the shortest time necessary, usually a few days, to avoid disruption of normal gut flora.
• Precautions: If symptoms persist or worsen after a few days, seek medical advice.

Mode of Action ACTICARB

ACTICARB exerts its therapeutic effects mainly through adsorption, helping to alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal disturbances.

• Adsorption by Kaolin: Kaolin binds to toxins, excess fluids, and irritants in the intestinal tract, reducing their contact with the intestinal mucosa and thus decreasing irritation.
• Activated Charcoal's Role: Due to its porous structure, activated charcoal adsorbs gases, toxins, and bacterial toxins, reducing bloating, flatulence, and toxicity.
• Reduction of Intestinal Motility: By adsorbing irritants, the medication helps normalize bowel motility and consistency, thereby alleviating diarrhea symptoms.
• Protection of Gut Mucosa: The adsorptive actions create a protective effect on the intestinal lining, minimizing inflammation and irritation.
• Non-Absorption: Both components act locally within the gastrointestinal tract without significant systemic absorption, making it safer with fewer systemic effects.

ACTICARB Interactions ACTICARB

Understanding drug interactions with ACTICARB is essential to prevent reduced efficacy of co-administered medications or adverse effects.

• Reduced Absorption of Oral Medications: Activated charcoal can adsorb other oral drugs taken simultaneously, reducing their absorption and effectiveness (e.g., digitalis, lithium, theophylline, certain antibiotics).
• Timing with Other Drugs: It is recommended to separate ACTICARB administration by at least 2 hours from other oral medications to minimize interactions.
• Electrolyte Imbalance Risk: Prolonged use, especially in diarrhea, may affect electrolyte levels, so caution is advised when used with drugs affecting electrolytes.
• Antidiarrheal Agents: Concurrent use with other antidiarrheal medications should be monitored to avoid excessive slowing of gut motility.
• Other Adsorbents: Co-administration with other adsorbents may reduce overall efficacy due to competitive binding.

Dosage of ACTICARB

The dosage of ACTICARB must be tailored to the patient's condition, age, and response, but general guidelines apply.

• Adults: Typically, 1 to 2 tablets taken orally three to four times daily, preferably after meals.
• Duration: Treatment usually lasts from 2 to 5 days, depending on symptom resolution.
• Children: Dosage should be adjusted by a healthcare professional according to age and weight; not all formulations are suitable for pediatric use.
• For Poisoning: Dosage and frequency are determined by a healthcare provider; large doses of activated charcoal may be used under medical supervision.
• Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless close to the next scheduled dose; avoid doubling doses.
• Overdose: Overuse may lead to constipation or intestinal obstruction; seek medical help if overdose is suspected.

Possible side effects of ACTICARB

ACTICARB is generally well tolerated, but some side effects may occur, particularly with prolonged or excessive use.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Constipation or harder stools due to reduced intestinal motility
  • Black stools, a harmless discoloration caused by activated charcoal
  • Bloating or mild abdominal discomfort
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling (rare)
  • Dry mouth or nausea
• Serious Side Effects: Intestinal obstruction or severe constipation requiring medical attention (rare, mainly with excessive use)
• Precautions: If symptoms worsen or new symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or difficulty passing stools occur, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

ACTICARB Contraindications ACTICARB

Certain conditions and patient factors contraindicate the use of ACTICARB.

• Known Hypersensitivity: Allergy to kaolin, activated charcoal, or any excipients in the tablet formulation.
• Intestinal Obstruction or Ileus: Use is contraindicated in patients with suspected or known intestinal obstruction as adsorbents may worsen the condition.
• Severe Constipation: Should be avoided where constipation is already present to prevent exacerbation.
• Dehydration or Electrolyte Imbalance: Caution is needed, especially in prolonged diarrhea cases without adequate hydration.
• Children under 12 years: Use only under strict medical advice as safety and efficacy data may be limited.

Storage of ACTICARB

Proper storage of ACTICARB ensures product stability and safety.

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, preferably between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Humidity: Keep tablets in a dry place, away from moisture to prevent degradation.
• Light Protection: Store in original packaging to protect from direct light exposure.
• Keep Out of Reach: Store safely out of reach of children to avoid accidental ingestion.
• Expiry: Check expiration date before use; do not use expired medication.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired tablets according to local regulations or pharmacy guidelines.