Why does activated charcoal cause constipation?

Answer 1

The simple activated charcoal suspension will cause constipation for most patients and stools will be darkened due to the indigestibility of the charcoal itself.

Using Activated Charcoal and Sorbitol Suspension

The activated charcoal and sorbitol suspension is the most commonly used form of activated charcoal. Activated charcoal is known to cause constipation so sorbitol is generally used to counteract that side effect. Sorbitol is a sweetener known to cause diarrhea. Sorbitol is mixed with the activated charcoal to counteract the constipation that generally occurs with activated charcoal. While the sorbitol is meant to counteract the constipation likely to develop from the use of activated charcoal, some people may find themselves overly sensitive to this chemical and develop diarrhea. For those who are particularly sensitive to sorbitol, diarrhea may be a very uncomfortable side effect. Darkened stools should always be expected when using activated charcoal because all of the charcoal consumed is passed from the body along with the toxic substance it was meant to treat