Activated charcoal was included on the first EMLc in 2007 as a non-specific antidote for poisoning. The EMLc Subcommittee noted that accidental poisoning with a variety of substances is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in children in developing countries, particularly, for example, due to ingestion of unsafely stored pesticides. Activated charcoal as a non-specific antidote was identified as essential for children although was not licensed in the sample of markets assessed. However, the Subcommittee considered that there was sufficient experience in the use of activated charcoal in children to endorse it as essential.