Potassium Iodide - protection in case of radioactive exposure

Thyroid Protection

If radioactive iodine in the air there, it is introduced into the lungs by inhalation where some will enter the bloodstream and be absorbed by the thyroid gland. An effective measure to prevent absorption of radioactive iodine by the thyroid is the administration of KI pills (potassium iodide). The stable iodine found in the pills (which is non-radioactive) will be quickly absorbed by the thyroid, "filling it up" with the stable iodine and in turn causing it to stop the accumulation of radioactive iodine. Radioactive iodine is then removed quickly from the body through natural body functions. 

Important note: 

The potassium iodide pills do not protect the body from other radioactive substances. 

Another measure to protect yourself against inhalation of radioactive iodine (and harmful radiation in general) is to remain sheltered inside. You can get more practical advice about how to protect yourself here: http://followthenews.blogspot.com/2011/03/radiation-dangers-nuclear-preparedness.html 

The administration of KI pills must be done quickly in an emergency though. Such pills will be available in reception centers organized by the Public Authorities and distributed to the public. Also the schools should have sufficient quantities of pills for the children, when necessary.

Studies have shown that the administration of iodine greatly reduces the risk of thyroid cancer. The tablets are most effective when taken just before being exposed, or at latest within 6 hours of exposure to radioactive emissions.

How to take potassium iodide pills?

Never take pills without consulting a doctor or a specialist.

As a general guideline, for an adequate effect, an adult can have one-only dose of 130 milligrams of potassium iodide, equivalent to 100 mg of iodine (only two tablets). The tablets are to be crushed and administered after a meal, with large quantities of liquids. It is recommended that depending on the extent and evolution of nuclear urgency, following the recommendation of health authorities, people may be advised to take iodine tablets repeatedly over several consecutive days, but without exceeding 10 days or a maximum total dose (cumulative) of 1 gram of iodine. In this case, to reduce side effects is recommended to take half a dose (one tablet) every 12 hours, but ONLY if the health authorities advise it!

The following persons should never take iodine tablets:

- People who suffer from hypersensitivity (allergic) to iodine;
- People who suffer from one of these rare diseases:

• dermatitis herpetiformis;
• iododerma tuberosum;
• penfigus vulgar;
• congenital myotonic;
• vasculitis with complement deficiency.

Disclaimer: 

DO NOT ingest potassium iodide pills without consulting the health authorities or your doctor! Only they can determine the necessary dose for each particular person and situation. The opinions expressed in this blog address theoretical concerns and CANNOT dictate direct patient care! The creator/author is also not responsible for the opinions of contributors comments.