Potassium iodide crystals, protecting thyroid gland from radioactive I-131 isotopes

Potassium iodide is a famous medication blocking the absorption of iodine by thyroid. It is used for protecting thyroid gland from radioactive iodine isotopes released during nuclear accident. Iodine-131, one of the most dangerous source of beta and gamma radiation, affects thyroid and may lead to its dysfunction and cancer. The injury depends on concentration of I-131 in thyroid.

Potassium iodide crystals

For minimizing it during nuclear disasters potassium iodide is used. It is available in tablet, liquid and crystalline form. The solution made of potassium iodide crystals and water is as effective as ready-made tablets and liquids. Handmade solution can be used in case when there are no other available forms and the patient needs emergency potassium iodide intake.

The cubic crystals of this salt have no smell, while there is a typical taste of the sea-water. It easily absorbs the moisture from air, easily dissolved in water, alcohol and glycerine. There are two types of potassium iodide water solutions: saturated and unsaturated. Normally the solution of potassium iodide is available by prescription, but it can be prepared manually when the emergency need occurs.

The easiest way to prepare the saturated solution is adding potassium iodide crystals into the water until some part of the crystals will not dissolve. You can see undissolved rests on the bottom of the vessel. Remember, that it is necessary to mix water and crystals vigorously to get sure that the water took maximum of the salt it is able to dissolved, while the crystals left are not a consequence of insufficient mixing.

One drop of such solution contains approximately 28 – 36 mg of pure potassium iodide, while the daily dose is 130 mg for adults and 65 mg for children. It is 4 and 2 drops of the solution respectively. This dose is enough for blocking thyroid for one day.

It is also possible to use potassium iodide crystals for preparing the iodized salt. To do this it is enough to add 1 gram of potassium iodide to 100 grams of common salt. It is used as a preventive measure for goitrous disorders.

The crystals of potassium iodide should be stored in dark-glass bottles with non-metal cover. Its keeping time is 3 years. It is incompatible with oxidizers, as they cause its decomposition with the release of iodine.

It is strongly not recommended to use potassium iodide without prescription. Overdosing may lead to toxic poisoning.