Activated charcoal adsorbs toxins through its massive surface area (1g = 3,000 m² surface area). Medical use: poison/overdose treatment (FDA-approved). Supplement use: 'detox,' gas reduction, hangover prevention — ALL unsupported by clinical evidence. 250-750mg for gas (some evidence). CRITICAL: activated charcoal binds MEDICATIONS and reduces their absorption. Take ALL drugs 2+ hours before or 1 hour after charcoal. Does NOT 'detox' the body — the liver and kidneys do that. --- *Reviewed by the Dose AI Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board* *Last updated: 2026-04-06*
Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated:
Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.