Patient Information Leaflet

carbomix

(ACTIVATED CHARCOAL)

GRANULES FOR ORAL SUSPENSION

Please read this leaflet carefully before you take Carbomix. If you would like any more information, or are not sure about anything, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist. It is possible that you may have been treated with Carbomix before you were able to read this leaflet.

What is in your medicine?

The active ingredient of Carbomix is activated charcoal in the form of very fine granules. Carbomix granules also contain citric acid, acacia and glycerin. Carbomix contains 50g activated charcoal in 61.5g granules. After mixing with water, the volume of suspension to be swallowed is about 400ml.

What you should know about Carbomix

Carbomix is used as an emergency treatment for acute oral poisoning or drug overdose. It works by absorbing toxic substances or drugs taken in overdose in order to reduce their absorption or increase their elimination from the blood. Carbomix itself is not absorbed into the blood and passes through the gastro-intestinal tract unchanged.

Carbomix is usually taken under medical supervision.

Before taking your medicine

You should not take Carbomix if you have taken an oral antidote such as n-acetylcysteine or cysteamine since each will reduce the effectiveness of the other.

The value of Carbomix in treating poisoning by corrosive substances (such as acids or alkalis) is limited and it should be borne in mind that the presence of charcoal may render difficult any immediate endoscopy that may be required.

Carbomix is poor at binding cyanide, iron salts and some solvents such as methanol, ethanol (the alcohol in alcoholic drinks) and ethylene glycol.

You should inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medication.

Carbomix may stain clothing if spilt.

Taking your medicine

Carbomix granules should be mixed with water and swallowed as a suspension.

If a doctor has prescribed Carbomix for you, you should follow his/her instructions.

The usual adult dose is 50g. Children under 12 years should be given 25g (half the contents of the pack after it has been made up with water) unless there is a risk to life, in which case a dose of 50g is recommended. The dose may be repeated if necessary, usually under medical supervision.

The contents of the bottle are made up to the red band with water, shaken thoroughly, and taken by mouth as soon as possible after the potential poison has been swallowed. It is important to take the whole dose.

If the toxicant has diuretic properties (i.e. increases urine output) or has been taken with alcohol, plenty of fluid should be drunk after taking Carbomix.

Carbomix can be taken after vomiting or after gastric lavage ("stomach pump"). Under medical supervision only, it may be given by intragastric tube and a universal applicator is provided for this purpose.

DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE

Remember to tell any doctor or pharmacist who is giving you advice about other medical conditions that you have taken Carbomix.

 

After taking your medicine

Most people do not experience side-effects when they have taken Carbomix. Some patients may however experience constipation or diarrhoea. If you do experience any side-effects after taking Carbomix you should tell your doctor.

Storing your medicine

Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Store below 25°C.

Do not use Carbomix after the expiry date which is shown on the label and the carton of each pack.

Dispose of any unused suspension after 24 hours.