PediRounds

Activated charcoal — paediatric dose

Weight-based dosing for Activated charcoal in children. Category: Other.

Dose1 g/kg (max 50 g)
Per kg1 g/kg
Maximum50 g
RoutePO/NG

Clinical notes

Within ~1 h of ingestion; protect airway.

Common questions

What is the dose of Activated charcoal in children?

1 g/kg (max 50 g). That is 1 g/kg per dose.

What is the maximum Activated charcoal dose for a child?

The maximum single dose is 50 g. Weight-based calculation should never exceed this ceiling.

How is Activated charcoal given?

Activated charcoal is given by PO/NG.

About this page

Compiled from standard paediatric references. Verify against a current formulary and your local protocol.

Spotted something wrong? Report an error on this page — corrections from clinicians are welcome and are reviewed before any change is published.

Last reviewed 2026-08-12.