Theophylline absorption by effervescent activated charcoal (Medicoal)

Abstract

Plasma theophylline concentrations were measured in six volunteers given 675 mg of a sustained-release preparation (Phyllocontin). Significant reductions in both the mean recorded peak theophylline plasma concentrations and the mean 12-hour theophylline bioavailability were observed after the administration of effervescent activated charcoal (Medicoal) in single and multiple doses. These results indicate the potential use of activated charcoal in the management of theophylline poisoning.