Iodine Products Information – Drug Interactions, Uses and Benefits
20 September 2007Type of Drug:
Iodine drugs.
How the Iodine Products Works:
Iodine intake is necessary for normal thyroid function and the synthesis of thyroid hormones levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T 3)’ Adequate iodine is generally consumed with a balanced diet.
Extremely large doses of iodine may, however, decrease the synthesis and release of the thyroid hormones. This effect forms the basis for using large doses of iodine to treat an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism).
Uses of The Iodine Products:
For use with an antithyroid drug in hyperthyroid patients prior to thyroid surgery or to treat an overactive thyroid gland.
To block the thyroid gland during a radiation emergency (eg, radioactive fallout).
Unlabeled Uses: Occasionally, doctors may prescribe potassium iodide with topical steroids to treat Sweet disease (acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis), to treat Iymphocutaneous sporotrichosis (a fungus that infects the skin and lymphatic system), or as an expectorant for cough.
Precautions:
Do not use in the following situations: Allergy to the iodine product or any of its ingredients.
Pregnancy: Studies have shown a potential risk to the fetus. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the possible hazards to the fetus.
Breastfeeding: Iodine products appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions:
loll your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or planning to take any overÂtelecommuter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking on Iodine product. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. Lithium.
Side Effects of The Iodine Products:
Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many iodine product users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:
Digestive Tract: Swelling of the salivary glands; metallic taste; burning mouth and throat; sore teeth and gums; upset stomach; diarrhea.
Respiratory System: Symptoms of a head cold; shortness of breath. Other: Rash; fever; joint pain; swelling of parts of the face and body.
Guidelines for Use:
- Use exactly as prescribed.
- Strong iodine solution- Dilute with water or fruit juice to improve taste.
- Thyroid surgery- Oral iodine-containing products are usually given for 10 days prior to surgery.
- Discontinue use and notify your doctor if fever, skin rash, metallic taste, swelling of the throat, burning of the mouth and throat, sore teeth and gums, head cold symptoms, severe stomach distress, diarrhea, shortÂness of breath or enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter) occurs.
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose in order to “catch up” (unless advised to do so by your doctor). If more than one dose is missed or if it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
- Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) – Adults: 150 mcg.
- If crystals are present in the solution, dissolve by warming the solution and shaking gently.
- Discard solution if it becomes discolored (eg, brownish yellow).
- Store at room temperature in a tight container. Do not freeze.
Tagged under:Thyroid Drugs
