What is the purpose of using activated charcoal in case of poisoning?

Using activated charcoal in cases of poisoning serves primarily to delay the absorption of the poison from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. Activated charcoal works by adsorbing the toxins present in the stomach and intestines, effectively binding to them and preventing their absorption. This reduces the amount of toxin that enters the body's system and minimizes potential harm.

The use of activated charcoal is particularly effective shortly after the ingestion of poison, as its ability to bind to various substances can help limit their impact. It is worth noting that activated charcoal is not used to neutralize poisons chemically or induce vomiting; rather, its role is to serve as a barrier, hindering the toxins' ability to be absorbed by the body.

While providing nutrition is not a function of activated charcoal, it is specifically designed as a treatment in acute poisoning scenarios. Its ability to adsorb a wide range of substances makes it a vital tool in the management of certain types of poisonings.