Elimination methods in neurotoxicology

In addition to supportive care and, if appropriate, antidote therapy, the prognosis in some poisonings can be improved by increasing drug or toxin elimination. Such methods include peroral activated charcoal, forced diuresis, peritoneal and hemodialysis, and hemoperfusion. The choice of method should be based upon a knowledge of the pharmacology of the drug or toxin itself and the limitations of the technique employed. This review focuses on the pharmacological principles involved, outlining the limitations and indications for these techniques in toxicology.