Article révisé par les pairs
Résumé : Removal of gastric content, followed by administration of activated charcoal and cathartics, is often recommended and routinely performed in acute toxic ingestions, excepted for several well known contraindications. Although its influence on clinical outcome has never been clearly demonstrated, early administration of activated charcoal is able to reduce the biodisponibility of many toxines. As it is almost devoided of side effects, a wide use may however be recommended. Conversely, induction of emesis and gastric lavage have both questionable effectiveness and are sometimes responsible for severe complications. A less sytematic and more rational use of these techniques is thus recommended. This paper, which is published is in two parts, is a review of literature about this topic and gives practical guidelines for the clinician. © 1992 arnette S.A.