Norit

Norit is a medicine used to reduce the frequency of defecation and absorb toxins in people with diarrhea. This medicine is also used to treat flatulence and other digestive disorders. Please note, Norit cannot be used as a substitute for oralit.

Norite contains activated carbon or activated charcoal. The activated carbon in Norit works by binding gas, chemicals, and poisons in the intestines so that they are not absorbed by the body. Further, the combination of Norit and the substance will be removed together with the faeces.

Although it can be used to overcome some cases of drug poisoning or overdose, activated carbon cannot be used to overcome alcohol, lithium , iron, or cyanide poisoning . Norit is available in a box containing 1 tube containing 40 tablets. Each tablet weighing 325 mg contains 125 mg of activated carbon.

What is Norit?

Warning Before Consuming Norit

Norit is an over-the-counter drug that should not be consumed indiscriminately. Consider the following before consuming Norit:

• Do not use Norit if you are allergic to charcoal or activated carbon.
• Consult your doctor about using Norit, if you are experiencing dehydration, bloody bowel movements, liver disease, kidney disease, or have just undergone intestinal surgery.
• Consult with a doctor about the use of Norit, if you are currently consuming drugs, supplements, or other herbal products.
• Consult a doctor about the use of Norit, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
• Consult a doctor if planning to give Norit to a child.
• Tell the doctor that you are undergoing treatment with Norit if you plan to have certain laboratory tests or operations.
• See a doctor immediately if the diarrhea  you experience does not improve after using activated charcoal for 2 days or if you develop a fever .
• See a doctor immediately if an allergic reaction to the drug , overdose, or serious side effect occurs.

Doses and Rules for Use of Norit

The following are the general dosages of Norit that are listed on the packaging:

Purpose: Helps reduce the frequency of defecation and absorb toxins in people with diarrhea

• Adults: 5–7 tablets once orally. The maximum dose is 20 tablets per day.

How to Consume Norit Correctly

Consume Norit as recommended by your doctor  and read the instructions on the packaging. Do not increase the dose used without first consulting a doctor.

Norit is usually consumed when symptoms arise or after eating. Swallow Norit tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not split, crush, or bite the medicine before swallowing.

If you need to use other medicines, make sure there is at least a 2-hour gap with Norit consumption. The time break is necessary to ensure that other drugs consumed can still work effectively. If you are in doubt consult the use of this medicine with a doctor.

Make sure there is a 2-hour gap between consumption of fruit jam, sorbet, or milk products with Norit. Consuming food and drinks within less than 2 hours can reduce the effectiveness of Norit.

Store Norit in a closed container in a dry and cool place away from sunlight. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

Interactions of Norit with Other Drugs

Until now, it is not known for certain the drug interactions that can occur if Norit is used with certain drugs. However, the active carbon in Norit can cause drug interaction effects, such as:

• Decreased effectiveness of activated carbon if used with ipecac
• Decreased effectiveness of acetylcysteine , citalopram, or methionine
• Decreased levels of acarbose , oral digoxin, leflunomide , miglitol, or theophylline  in the blood
• Decreased effectiveness of tricyclic antidepressants , paracetamol, or warfarin
• Decreased effectiveness or levels of methotrexate  in the blood
• Increased risk of electrolyte imbalance and dehydration if used with constipation medications, such as sorbitol and magnesium citrate .

In addition, fruit jam, sorbet, or milk products, such as ice cream consumed close to the time of consumption of Norit (<2 hours) can reduce the effectiveness of the activated carbon in Norit.

Side Effects and Dangers of Norit

The side effects that can arise after consuming Norit with active carbon content can vary. Usually side effects are more likely to occur when this drug is consumed in the long term. Some side effects that can arise include:

• Feces are black
• The tongue is black
• Vomiting
• Constipation  or otherwise diarrhea

Check with your doctor if the above side effects do not improve or get worse. Immediately go to the doctor if there is a drug allergic reaction  or a more serious side effect, such as stomach pain , continuous vomiting, not being able to pass wind, or the stomach appears swollen.