evidence: For example, using activated charcoal may not be a good fit for people who have an intestinal blockage. Activated charcoal can be safe if you are pregnant, but you should avoid using it until you speak to your healthcare provider. Since activated charcoal reduces the body’s ability to absorb certain chemicals, you may also want to avoid using it while taking certain medications, such as: Birth control pills Oral medications Syrup of ipecac Drinking alcohol with activated charcoal may also prevent the body from absorbing poisons, so mixing the two should be avoided. Summary Activated charcoal is mainly used to treat chemical poisoning or drug overdoses. However, more uses have surfaced in recent years, such as in toothpaste and other cosmetic products. There is little to no scientific evidence to support claims that it can help with anything other than poisonings or overdoses, so it should be used cautiously. The substance is considered safe to be ingested and used on the skin, but it can reduce the body's ability to absorb medications.