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iodine, strong - oral

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GENERIC NAME: IODINE, STRONG - ORAL (EYE-oh-dine)

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication contains iodine and potassium iodide. It is used along with antithyroid medicines to prepare the thyroid gland for surgical removal and to treat certain overactive thyroid conditions (hyperthyroidism, thyroid storm). It works by shrinking the size of the thyroid gland and by decreasing the amount of thyroid hormones the body makes.This medication may also be used to protect the thyroid gland after radioactive iodine treatment or in a radiation exposure emergency. In such cases, this product blocks the thyroid gland from absorbing radioactive iodine, protecting it from damage and reducing the risk of thyroid cancer. In a radiation exposure emergency, use this medication along with other emergency measures that will be recommended to you by public health and safety officials (e.g., finding safe shelter, evacuation, controlling food supply).This medication may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor (e.g., treatment of iodine deficiency).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed. Use the dropper that comes with the bottle to measure the correct dose. To improve the taste, mix the dose in a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water, milk, formula, or juice before taking. To decrease stomach upset, take this medication after meals or with food. Do not use this medication if it turns brownish-yellow.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose, take it more often, or take it for longer than prescribed or recommended because of the increased risk of side effects.In a radiation emergency, take this drug only when public health and safety officials tell you to do so. Start treatment as soon as possible for the best protection. The length of treatment will be determined by public health and safety officials.If so directed, use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, diarrhea, metallic taste in the mouth, fever, headache, runny nose, sneezing, or acne may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: burning mouth/throat, sore teeth/gums, swelling inside the mouth, increased saliva, eye irritation/swollen eyelids, severe headache, swelling of the front of the neck/throat (goiter), signs of decreased thyroid gland function (e.g., weight gain, cold intolerance, slow/irregular heartbeat, constipation, unusual tiredness), confusion, numbness/tingling/pain/weakness of the hands/feet.Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: chest pain, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, bloody diarrhea.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing, fever with joint pain.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.