From the Guidelines
Activated charcoal is generally considered safe during breastfeeding when used appropriately for acute poisoning or digestive issues. The primary concern with using activated charcoal during breastfeeding is not the charcoal itself, but rather its potential to interfere with the absorption of other medications or nutrients [ 1 ]. Since activated charcoal is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream, very little if any would pass into breast milk, making it unlikely to affect a nursing infant.
Key Considerations
- The standard adult dose of activated charcoal for poisoning treatment is typically 25-100 grams, and it works by binding to toxins and chemicals in the digestive tract, preventing their absorption into the bloodstream.
- Charcoal can reduce the absorption of other medications and nutrients, so it should be taken at least 2 hours apart from other medications or supplements.
- While using charcoal for occasional digestive issues is likely safe, regular or long-term use during breastfeeding is not recommended as it could potentially affect the mother's nutrient absorption, indirectly impacting milk quality.
- It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using activated charcoal, especially if you're taking other medications or have ongoing health concerns [ 1 ].
Safety Precautions
- If airway protective reflexes are impaired, the risk of administering activated charcoal may outweigh the benefits.
- Commercially available preparations of activated charcoal often contain sorbitol as a cathartic, and fatal hypernatremic dehydration has been reported after repeated doses of charcoal with sorbitol [ 1 ].
- Non–sorbitol-containing products should be used for children <1 y old and if repeated doses of charcoal are necessary.
From the Research
Safety of Activated Charcoal during Breastfeeding
- There are no direct studies on the safety of activated charcoal during breastfeeding among the provided evidence.
- However, studies have discussed the safety of various substances during breastfeeding, including herbal supplements 2 and medications 3.
- The use of medications and supplements during breastfeeding is a common concern, and healthcare professionals should assess the latest evidence and consider the risk-benefit ratio before advising mothers to interrupt breastfeeding 3.
- Research has also focused on the presence of harmful substances in breast milk, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which can be influenced by household fuel and cooking methods 4.
- Additionally, nutritional requirements during pregnancy and lactation have been studied, highlighting the importance of a personalized approach to nutritional advice 5.
- Since activated charcoal is not specifically mentioned in the provided studies, its safety during breastfeeding cannot be directly determined from this evidence.