For which case is activated charcoal therapy most appropriate?

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Activated charcoal therapy is most appropriate for the management of acetaminophen overdose because it can effectively adsorb the drug in the gastrointestinal tract when administered soon after ingestion. Acetaminophen is a commonly used analgesic and antipyretic, but it can cause severe hepatotoxicity if levels exceed therapeutic thresholds. Administering activated charcoal within one hour of ingestion can prevent or reduce the absorption of the drug, decreasing the risk of serious liver damage.

In the case of drain cleaner ingestion, activated charcoal is not suitable due to the corrosive nature of the chemicals involved, which can cause chemical burns to the gastrointestinal tract. Similarly, for iron supplement overdose, activated charcoal is not effective because iron is not adequately adsorbed by charcoal and can worsen toxicity. In lithium overdose, while activated charcoal may sometimes be used, the efficacy is limited compared to specific treatments available for lithium toxicity, such as dialysis. Therefore, the indication for activated charcoal is strongest in the context of acetaminophen overdose.

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