Drug Name

Potassium Iodide

Drug Uses

Potassium iodide is the potassium salt form of iodide, a naturally occurring substance.

How to use

Take potassium iodide exactly as directed. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to explain them to you.

To ensure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Take the oral solution with water or another beverage as directed by your doctor.

It is important to take potassium iodide regularly to get the most benefit.

Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with potassium iodide to monitor progress and side effects.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Potassium iodide is an expectorant. It thins mucus secretions in the respiratory tract that may be caused by chronic respiratory problems such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Potassium iodide is also used to protect the thyroid gland from radiation injury before and following administration of radioactive iodide (e.g., for diagnostic purposes) and in radiation emergencies (e.g., accidental exposure to radiation).

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Storage

Store potassium iodide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Warnings/Precautions

Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before having surgery or taking other medicines.

Before taking potassium iodide, talk to your doctor if you have a history of previous allergic reaction to iodide, iodine, or other medicines; Addison's disease; dehydration; a high level of potassium in the blood (hyperkalemia); cystic fibrosis; tuberculosis; thyroid problems; goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland); or kidney problems. You may not be able to take potassium iodide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Possible Side Effects

Stop taking potassium iodide and seek emergency medical attention if you experience a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take potassium iodide and talk to your doctor if you experience

• nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, or stomach pain;
• mild skin rash; or
• a metallic taste in the mouth.

More Information

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of a potassium iodide overdose are not known.