Should I Take Potassium Iodide For Radiation Exposure?

With the recent earthquake in Japan and the threat of radiation exposure, should I take Potassium Iodide? Lets look at this logically. Here is some information to help you make the right choice.

At the time of this posting there are no harmful levels of radiation here in the US. (at this time).

About Potassium Iodide (also known as KI) - The drug works by filling the thyroid gland with potassium iodide, which leaves no room for the radioactive iodine, which can cause cancer. It does not protect against other effects of radiation exposure.

Adults older than 40 are warned not to take potassium iodide (KI) unless contamination with a very large doses of radioactive iodine is expected. They’re at the lowest risk for developing thyroid cancer after radiation exposure and at highest risk for having allergic reactions to potassium iodide (KI).

In the event of a nuclear emergency, potassium iodide is most useful in protecting infants and children younger than 18, whose bodies are most vulnerable to the effects of radioactive iodine, according to the CDC.

Taking potassium iodide (KI) can be harmful to people who are allergic to iodine, those who have certain skin disorders and people with thyroid diseases including goiter, Graves’ disease or autoimmune thyroid disorders.
Side effects from potassium iodide (KI) can include upset stomach, rashes and inflammation of the salivary glands.

I am not sure if I actually answered the question of should I take potassium iodide (KI) but with a bit of information you may have a better guideline in making your choice to take potassium iodide (KI).

You can find potassium iodide (KI) at




iOSAT Potassium Iodide Tablets, 130 mg (14 Tablets)
NOW Foods, POTASSIUM PLUS IODINE 180 TABS
Life Extension Potassium Iodide Tablets, 14 Count (Pack of 2)
Lugol's Iodine Solution 2%
losat Potassium Iodide | FDA approved | 14 130mg tablets

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