Skip to main content

Char-Flo Aqueous Base

Generic name: activated charcoal [ CHAR-coal ]
Brand names: Actidose-Aqua, Activated Charcoal, Charcocaps, Char-Flo Aqueous Base, EZChar, Insta-Char, Optimum Charcoal
Drug classes: Antidotes, Miscellaneous GI agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 3, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Char-Flo Aqueous Base?

Common charcoal is made from wood, coconut shell, peat, coal, or petroleum. "Char-Flo Aqueous Base" is a processed form of common charcoal that contains pores that can trap other chemicals and prevent them from being absorbed by the body.

Char-Flo Aqueous Base is used to treat certain types of chemical poisonings.

Char-Flo Aqueous Base has also been used in alternative medicine as an aid in treating gas and indigestion.

It is not certain whether Char-Flo Aqueous Base is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. This medicine should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Char-Flo Aqueous Base is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Char-Flo Aqueous Base may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Char-Flo Aqueous Base side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, Char-Flo Aqueous Base is thought to be likely safe for most people when used for a short period of time, and possibly safe when used long term.

Char-Flo Aqueous Base may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of Char-Flo Aqueous Base may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Char-Flo Aqueous Base side effects (more detail)

Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Do not use this product without medical advice to treat poisoning. Char-Flo Aqueous Base may cause more serious problems if used to treat poisoning caused by certain chemicals such as turpentine, lye, strong acids, kerosene, gasoline, paint thinner, cleaning fluid, or furniture polish.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product for other conditions if you have ever had:

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If possible during an emergency, tell your medical caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

How should I take Char-Flo Aqueous Base?

Call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 before using Char-Flo Aqueous Base to treat a poisoning.

When considering the use of activated charcoal, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use Char-Flo Aqueous Base, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid). Measure a dose with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Swallow the tablet or capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.

The granules or powder must be mixed with liquid before you swallow them.

To treat a poisoning in a person who has been given ipecac syrup to cause vomiting, wait until the person has vomited before given Char-Flo Aqueous Base.

Do not attempt to treat poisoning in a person who is having seizures or is not fully conscious. Seek emergency medical help right away.

To treat indigestion or gas, Char-Flo Aqueous Base is usually taken right before meals or after eating foods that might cause stomach discomfort. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Detailed Char-Flo Aqueous Base dosage information

polyethylene glycol 3350 with electrolytes, GoLYTELY, Activated Charcoal, GaviLyte-G, PEG-3350 with Electolytes, GaviLyte-C

What happens if I miss a dose?

Char-Flo Aqueous Base is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Char-Flo Aqueous Base?

Avoid drinking alcohol.

What other drugs will affect Char-Flo Aqueous Base?

Char-Flo Aqueous Base can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth. Take your this medicine dose at least 1 to 2 hours before or after taking other medicines by mouth.

Other drugs may affect Char-Flo Aqueous Base, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Char-Flo Aqueous Base drug interactions (more detail)

Does Char-Flo Aqueous Base interact with my other drugs?

Enter other medications to view a detailed interaction report.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 7.01.