Potassium Iodide

Potassium Iodide is a chemical compound and medication used to treat various conditions. It is often used as an expectorant in the treatment of chronic bronchitis and as a protective agent in nuclear radiation emergencies to block radioactive iodine from entering the thyroid gland.

Indications

-Protection of the thyroid gland during nuclear radiation emergencies -Treatment of hyperthyroidism -Treatment of sporotrichosis (fungal infection) -Pre-operative treatment of Graves' disease -Expectorant in chronic bronchitis

Dosage

-For thyroid protection in radiation emergencies: 130 mg for adults and children over 12 years, 65 mg for children aged 3-12 years, 32 mg for children aged 1 month to 3 years, and 16 mg for newborns up to 1 month old. -For hyperthyroidism: Typically, 250-500 mg three times daily. -As an expectorant: 300-600 mg three times daily.

Contra-Indications

-Hypersensitivity to iodine or any component of the formulation -Dermatitis herpetiformis -Hypocomplementemic vasculitis

Special Precautions

-Use with caution in patients with renal impairment -Monitor thyroid function in long-term use -Use with caution in patients with pre-existing thyroid disease -Avoid unnecessary repeated dosing to minimize the risk of iodine toxicity

Side Effects

-Skin rash -Swelling of salivary glands -Metallic taste -Sore teeth and gums -Symptoms of iodism (e.g., headache, bronchitis, stomach upset)

Drug Interactions

-May interact with other thyroid medications or supplements -Can affect the absorption of certain other medications -Consult a healthcare provider before combining with other drugs or supplements