lääkehiilen

Lääkehiili, also known as activated charcoal, is a fine black powder produced from charcoal that has been treated with oxygen. This treatment creates a highly porous material with an extremely large surface area. Lääkehiili is not absorbed by the body and is primarily used for its adsorptive properties.

The main medical application of lääkehiili is in the emergency treatment of poisoning and drug overdose. When ingested shortly after a harmful substance, lääkehiili can bind to the toxin in the stomach and intestines, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. It is typically administered as a slurry or in capsule form. The effectiveness of lääkehiili depends on the type of poison, the amount ingested, and the time elapsed since ingestion. It is less effective for certain substances such as alcohols, heavy metals, and caustic agents.

Beyond acute poisoning, lääkehiili has also been explored for other uses, though evidence for these applications is often less robust. Some people use it as a dietary supplement for purported benefits like detoxification or gas relief. However, these uses are generally not supported by strong scientific evidence, and its effectiveness in such contexts is debated. Lääkehiili can interfere with the absorption of medications, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially if taking other medicines.