Question

Which substance is mainly used in treating alkaloidal poisoning?

• A. Sodium nitrate
• B. Sodium thiosulphate
• C. Kaolin
• D. Activated charcoal

Hint:

Activated charcoal is a powerful adsorbent used in poisoning because it reduces gastrointestinal absorption of many toxins.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept:
Alkaloidal poisoning occurs due to toxic alkaloids. Treatment often involves preventing further absorption of the poison from the gastrointestinal tract.

Step 1: Role of adsorbents in poisoning.
Adsorbents bind poisonous substances in the gastrointestinal tract and reduce their absorption into the blood.

Step 2: Activated charcoal.
Activated charcoal has a very large surface area. It adsorbs many poisons, including several alkaloids.

Step 3: Why activated charcoal is useful.
After adsorption, the poison-charcoal complex remains in the gut and is eliminated from the body.

Step 4: Checking other options.
Sodium nitrate is not mainly used for alkaloidal poisoning.
Sodium thiosulphate is used in cyanide poisoning.
Kaolin is an adsorbent but is less effective than activated charcoal for poisoning management.

Step 5: Final answer.
Therefore, activated charcoal is mainly used in treating alkaloidal poisoning. \[ \boxed{\text{Activated charcoal}} \]