Active charcoal

[Jako999]

Hi all I’m thinking of trying some active charcoal tablets as my cardiac meds give me terrible wind. There seems to be a confusion as to what does to take? There must be lots of people on here that have the same problem as we are all on similar meds, so what do you take, what dose, how often and do they interfere with any of our other heart meds.

Thanks

[Laurap18]

I read that active chaorcal can interfere with medications, so it's better if you ask your doctor.

[Lowerfield_no_more]

If you believe you suffer from side effects caused by medication talk to your GP or pharmacist to see if there are any alternatives available.

[Blearyeyed]

You can't use it with Digoxin. It also interacts with various other medications. You can't use it with other types of medication for constipation.

Because its main use is to reduce absorption of toxins for certain types of poisoning it does reduce how much you will absorb of any medication if it's taken at the same time. Recommendations are they if you must take it, it needs to be 2 hours after medications taken orally.

So if you occasionally require a PIP or spray at irregular times this probably isn't right for you either.

Long term use can cause constipation , diarrhea and vomiting among other things.

Commonly you will have black stools or discolouration to your urine which can make it more difficult for you to notice if there is anything wrong with your movements that requires medical attention.

Apart from certain types of poisoning and cholesteric treatments there is very little research data proving it's efficacy for the illnesses and conditions it is meant to help.

Basically, there are many more natural alternatives for trapped wind and cholesterol that are more successful with less side effects than activated charcoal, I think I'd try those first. Let us know how you get on if you choose to take it. Take care , Bee

[Autumn_Leaves]

Best avoided. Not only does it interfere with medication, it also interferes with nutrient absorption. I think your GP or pharmacist is a better bet than trying to self medicate, given that you’re on prescription meds. Sometimes a hot water bottle on the abdomen can help get the trapped wind moving, as can abdominal massage techniques

[Jako999]

Thanks all. I’m seeing my cardiologist in about 5 weeks time I’ll have a chat with him.

[Lagrange]

Maybe try burnt toast - it is charcoal and will sort out your stomach.

[taliesin1411]

Do you take a PIP such as Lansaprozale? Usually taken first thing in morning to regulate stomach acid.