What is the most important information I should know about potassium iodide?
Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before having surgery or
taking other medicines.
What is potassium iodide?
Potassium iodide is the potassium salt form of iodide, a naturally occurring substance.
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).
Potassium iodide may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking potassium iodide?
Before taking potassium iodide, talk to your doctor if you have
You may not be able to take potassium iodide, or you may require a
dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
Potassium iodide is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be
harmful to an unborn baby.
Do not take potassium iodide without first talking to
your doctor if you are
pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
Potassium iodide passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby.
Do not take potassium iodide without first talking to your doctor if you are
breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take potassium iodide?
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.
Store potassium iodide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
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