Potassium Iodide Solution

What is this medication?

POTASSIUM IODIDE (puh TAS ee uhm AHY uh dahyd) protects the thyroid from radiation. It works by reducing the amount of radioactive iodine that can be absorbed by the thyroid. This decreases the risk of thyroid cancer.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pima, SSKI

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Addison's disease
• Dermatitis herpetiformis
• Heart disease
• High levels of potassium in the blood
• Hypocomplementemic vasculitis
• Kidney disease
• Myotonia congenita
• Thyroid disease
• Tuberculosis
• An unusual or allergic reaction to potassium iodide, iodine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Mix the dose in one glass of water, fruit juice, or milk. Take with food or milk. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure each dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. Do not use it more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

• Other medication for the thyroid
• Propylthiouracil

This medication may also interact with the following:

• Certain diuretics, such as spironolactone or triamterene
• Certain medications for high blood pressure or heart failure, such as enalapril
• Lithium
• Potassium supplements

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks ups. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Low thyroid levels (hypothyroidism)—unusual weakness or fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, hair loss, dry skin, weight gain, feelings of depression

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Change in taste
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. At lower than room temperature, crystals may form in this medication. If crystals form, let the bottle warm to room temperature and shake to dissolve. Throw this medication away if it turns brownish yellow. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.