Potassium iodide liquid, Potassium iodide liquid dosage

One of the main medications for preventing the influence of radioactive iodine on thyroid gland is potassium iodide. It is a salt that contains stable iodine. When it gets to the body, it serves as a blocker of radioactive iodine isotopes absorption by thyroid gland, preventing the organ from harmful radiation injury. It is available in two forms – potassium iodide tablets and potassium iodide liquid. 1 ml of liquid contains 65 mg of potassium iodide that is also known as kalium iodide or KI. The medication is taken orally.

Potassium Iodide Liquid

In order to maximize the effect of KI therapy it is important to know a few facts. KI is maximally effective when taken right before or right after the internal contamination. The internal contamination is ingress of radioactive iodine isotopes (I-131) to the organism by breathing, eating or drinking. Starting the therapy in 24 hours after contamination is almost non-effective. Potassium iodide prevents only thyroid glands from absorption of radioactive iodine, while the other organs stay unprotected.

The effect of I-131 on thyroid may cause different disorders, up to the gland dysfunction, hormonal disbalance and even cancer. The severity of these effects depends on how much I-131 was absorbed by the gland. The important action of potassium iodide liquid is its ability to block the absorption of I-131 by filling the thyroid up with stable iodine. The gland cannot absorb iodine more than it needs for functioning, so when it is already full of this element, the rest of it in the body stays unabsorbed. This is the main mechanism of protecting thyroid from I-131 radiation.

Potassium iodide can be taken by patients of all ages, including breast-fed newborns, children, women who are breastfeeding. The dosage required for neutralizing the action of I-131 is defined by emergency officials if some nuclear accident took place. Self-therapy is strongly not recommended, as potassium iodide is effective only for I-131, while there can be a various number of other radiation sources released into the environment. If there is no I-131 released, potassium iodide is not effective and may even cause serious negative side effects.

Potassium iodide liquid is taken diluted in a glass of water of juice. It can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food helps to relieve stomach irritation. Never overdose the medication, this may lead to iodine poisoning.

How to use Potassium Iodide Liquid:

• Use Potassium Iodide Liquid as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
• Potassium Iodide Liquid may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.
• Dilute each dose in a glass (8 oz/240 mL) of water or fruit juice before taking. Follow each dose with another glass of water.
• Use a measuring device marked for medicine dosing. Ask your pharmacist for help if you are unsure of how to measure your dose.
• If you miss a dose of Potassium Iodide Liquid, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
• Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Potassium Iodide Liquid.

Usual Adult Dose for Radiation Emergency

Pregnant or lactating women with exposure >= 5 centigrays (cGy): 130 mg orally per day.
>18 and <=40 years with exposure >= 10 centigrays (cGy): 130 mg orally per day.
>40 years with exposure >= 500 centigrays (cGy): 130 mg orally per day.

Useful links:

Potassium Iodide Syrup
Potassium Iodide Drops
Potassium Iodide Liquid