Nuclear accidents , such as Chernobyl, Three Mile Island and Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant, which was damaged by a devastating earthquake and tidal wave, cause widespread alarm. As radiation travels long distances, many people express concern about possible health effects, and questions arise about the possibility of radiation sickness and the correct use of potassium iodide.
How Potassium Iodide Protects You
Potassium iodide does not protect the entire body from radiation--it only protects the thyroid gland, and only when the radiation source is iodine-131, a byproduct produced when uranium is used for energy production. This radioactive iodine is absorbed by the thyroid gland and creates a risk for the development of thyroid cancer, especially in infants and children. If potassium iodide is taken in time, the thyroid gland absorbs it and becomes unable to absorb the potentially cancer-causing radioactive iodine in the environment.
Definition of Radiation Sickness
Radiation sickness, also called radiation poisoning, is a very serious condition that occurs after exposure to a large dose of ionizing radiation. The severity depends on the type and amount of radiation you are exposed to. Symptoms include bleeding, bruising, diarrhea, vomiting, hair loss and burns on the skin. Although it is possible to develop radiation sickness after a nuclear power plant accident, a person does not have to be at risk of developing the condition in order to require thyroid protection from potassium iodide, nor would potassium iodide be used as treatment for radiation sickness.
Potassium Iodide Indications
Potassium iodide should be taken as soon as emergency officials advise you to do so, ideally within three hours of exposure. When potassium iodide is taken at the recommended dose, it is effective at reducing the risk of future thyroid cancer in people exposed to radioactive iodine. The highest priority for receiving potassium iodide is given to those at most risk--infants, children, and pregnant and nursing women. Anyone over 40 should not be treated with the drug unless they're at risk for a high enough dose of radiation to destroy the thyroid gland, according to the FDA. Potassium iodide should be taken again in 24 hours if the risk of exposure to radioactive iodine still exists.
How to Obtain Potassium Iodide
Potassium iodide is available over the counter, although the FDA recommends you understand possible risks before taking it. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission purchases potassium iodide for states that have nuclear power plants, and it is distributed to people living within the 10-mile emergency planning zone after an accidental release of radiation into the atmosphere.
Risks and Side Effects
Although short-term use of potassium iodide is generally safe at the recommended dose, it has potential risks and side effects, and should only be taken only if emergency officials instruct you to do so. There is a risk of allergy to potassium iodide, which requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include hives, itching, swelling of the tongue, lips, face, throat, hands or feet, wheezing, trouble swallowing, and difficulty speaking or breathing. Rarely, side effects such as thyroid overactivity, underactivity or enlargement can occur. People with preexisting thyroid disease are at greater risk, as are infants under 1 month of age. Taking more than the recommended dose increases your chance for side effects.
References
- DailyMed: Thyroshield (Potassium Iodide) Solution
- NPR; Japan Crisis Spikes Demand For Radiation Pills; The Associated Press; March 15, 2011
- FDA: Frequently Asked Questions on Potassium Iodide (KI)
- Harvard Health Publications; Potassium Iodide Pills and Prevention of Thyroid Cancer from Japanese Nuclear Power Plant; Peter Wehrwein; March 14, 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Radiation Sickness
