Background and Aim: Activated charcoal, due to its porous structure and high adsorption capacity, is widely used in pharmaceutical formulations, including capsules, to reduce gastrointestinal absorption of toxins. Considering the limited domestic production and dependence on imported products, this study aimed to formulate and evaluate a locally produced activated charcoal capsule and compare it with a commercial sample.

Methods: The physicochemical properties of the activated charcoal powder, including acid-soluble substances, chloride, sulfate, sulfide, cyanide compounds, and heavy metals, were assessed according to BP and USP pharmacopeial standards. In addition, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis was performed to determine surface area and adsorption capacity. Capsules were prepared in powder and granule forms, followed by pre-formulation tests, including flowability and density, as well as pharmaceutical evaluations such as content uniformity and disintegration time.

Results: The activated charcoal powder demonstrated acceptable physicochemical quality, and impurity levels were within pharmacopeial limits. The iodine number confirmed the high adsorption capacity of the sample. Powder-based capsules, with a surface area of 675 m²/g, showed greater adsorption capacity than granules (364 m²/g), while granulation improved flowability and density. The produced capsules were comparable to the commercial product in terms of content uniformity and disintegration time.

Conclusion: The formulated activated charcoal capsules met pharmacopeial standards and exhibited appropriate performance. The higher adsorption capacity of the powder-based capsules suggests a potential therapeutic advantage. Overall, the findings indicate the feasibility of domestic production and its potential role in reducing reliance on imported activated charcoal products.