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What Is Potassium Iodide Used for?

Potassium iodide (KI) is used for radiological emergencies. It is a thyroidal blocking agent that is used by emergency workers, individuals who are institutionalized and citizens who are within a 10-mile radius of an nuclear power plant. The Food and Drug Administration issued guidance regarding the use of potassium iodide in radiation emergencies in 2001. Potassium iodide is also used in health care as a preparation for thyroid surgery and as a treatment for high thyroid levels, and may also be used as an expectorant.

  1. Function

    • Potassium iodide is used in radiation emergencies because it protects the thyroid gland from radio-iodine. Inhaled or ingested food that has been contaminated by radio-iodine can cause injury to the thyroid because iodine accumulates in the thyroid gland. The amount of radio-iodine that is up-taken by the thyroid is reduced by infusing the the thyroid gland with potassium iodide.

    Administration

    • Potassium iodide should be taken prior to being exposed to radio iodine, or immediately following exposure. It can be taken as much as three or four hours after you are exposed, but it is not as effective. It should be taken once daily until the radiation emergency no longer exists. As a medical treatment, it should be taken three or four times a day following meals, with water. Large quantities of fluids, particularly water are important while using this medication.

    Dosage and Availability

    • Dosage is based on age and weight, and potassium iodide is available in both pill and liquid form. Potassium iodide is available over the counter. While the FDA has approved legal marketing of the brand names Iosat, ThyroSafe and ThyroShield, they may not be easily located in stores. However, they may be obtained via the Internet. Potassium iodide has a shelf life of five to seven years.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects of potassium iodide may include loss of appetite, acne and stomach distress. These effects may disappear after a few days. You should consult your doctor if other side effects occur such as, fever, unusual fatigue, weakness, rash, nausea, vomiting, swelling in your neck or throat, sores in your mouth, stomach pains, tingling or numbness in your hands and feet, irregular heartbeat or a metallic taste in your mouth.

    Warnings

    • Your should inform your doctor of any medications your are taking, specifically thyroid medication, potassium supplements, lithium or diuretics. You should also include over-the-counter medications.If you have a sensitivity to iodine you should inform your doctor or avoid taking potassium iodide.

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