Potassium iodide tablets (also known as KI pills) are a potentially life-saving solution for exposure to radioactive iodine (I-131) in the aftermath of a nuclear accident or explosion. These iodine tablets work by flooding your body with safe iodine to prevent the absorption and accumulation of radioactive iodine.

 Radioactive iodine can otherwise lead to an increased risk of thyroid cancer—and your thyroid gland is crucial for managing everything from your nervous system to your heart rate. These tablets will be the first thing you reach for in the aftermath of a nuclear disaster, ensuring you are prepared for any radiation emergencies.

Key Features of Potassium Iodide Tablets:

• Each tablet contains 65mg of potassium iodide.
• Tablets can easily be split to manage dosing for both children and adults.
• Each container comes with 60 tablets, or 30 adult doses (60 for children).
• Metered dose with minimal risk of side effects or discomfort.
• 10-year shelf life for long-lasting reliability.

Technical Details of Potassium Iodide Tablets

Radioactive iodine (I-131) is a significant component in the fallout produced by nuclear accidents, detonations, or reactor meltdowns.

Once ingested or inhaled, I-131 accumulates in the body’s thyroid gland—where it can cause mutation and, eventually, thyroid cancer. Potassium iodide tablets are a proactive solution to protect yourself from I-131 by preventing absorption in the first place.

Usage Instructions

Take KI tablets immediately upon finding out you’re at risk of potential exposure in  radiological emergencies. Each dose provides 24 hours of protection, and each bottle contains 60 x 65mg tablets (dosing instructions below).

Since nearly two-thirds of Americans live within 50 miles of an active nuclear reactor, MIRA Safety recommends potassium iodide tablets for every household. Thyroid protection is vital for younger family members. Note: The risk of developing thyroid cancer from I-131 exposure reduces with age, while the likelihood of experiencing side effects increases. Exercise caution if taking these supplements over the age of 40.

Dosing Instructions:

• Newborns (up to 1 month old) should receive ¼ tablet (16mg) per day.
• Infants (between 1 month and three years) should receive ½ tablet (32mg) per day.
• Children (between 3 and 18 years, up to 150lbs) should receive one tablet (65mg) per day.
• Adults (age 18+) should receive two tablets per day.

Note: Each dose lasts 24 hours. MIRA Safety recommends having at least a one-month supply for each family member.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on the use of potassium iodide

Potassium iodide (KI) tablets are approved by the FDA for use in radiation emergencies. In the event of a nuclear accident at a nuclear power plant, these tablets can prevent the thyroid gland from absorbing harmful radioactive iodine. 

Available at your local pharmacy, these emergency pills provide essential protection against radiation exposure. For those who find it difficult to swallow tablets, potassium iodide is also available in liquid form. Ensuring your family’s safety in radiological events is crucial, and having potassium iodide tablets on hand can make all the difference.

Don't Confuse 'Iodide' with Iodine tablets

Iodide is the ion form of iodine, typically found in compounds like potassium iodide (KI) or potassium iodine, while iodine refers to the elemental form of the chemical.

Potassium iodide (iodide) is used for thyroid protection in radiation emergencies, whereas elemental iodine is commonly used for disinfecting and medical purposes, and iodine pills are used to ensure adequate iodine intake.

FAQs: Potassium Iodide Pills

Potassium iodide (KI) is a stable iodine salt that can help block radioactive iodine from being absorbed by the thyroid gland, thus protecting it from radiation exposure during emergencies.

Potassium iodide tablets work by saturating the thyroid gland with stable iodine, reducing the risk of absorbing harmful radioactive iodine from nuclear fallout. This thyroid blocking action is crucial to prevent thyroid damage caused by radioactive iodine.

Take potassium iodide tablets immediately upon official notification of radiation exposure risk. Each dose provides 24-hour protection.

Yes, children can take potassium iodide tablets. The tablets are designed to be easily split to ensure accurate dosing for children of different age groups.

 Side effects are minimal but can include gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, and thyroid dysfunction in some cases. It's important to follow dosing instructions carefully to minimize the risk of side effects.

 Yes, potassium iodide tablets are available at many pharmacies, especially those that stock emergency preparedness supplies. You do not need a prescription to purchase them.

 Potassium iodide tablets have a shelf life of 10 years, making them a reliable long-term solution for radiation emergencies.

Yes, potassium iodide is also available in liquid form for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets.

Potassium iodide is crucial in radiation emergencies because it helps prevent the thyroid gland from absorbing radioactive iodine, thereby reducing the risk of thyroid cancer and other related health issues.

In the event of a nuclear accident, potassium iodide tablets should be taken immediately to prevent the thyroid gland from absorbing radioactive iodine, which is a major component of nuclear fallout.

Yes, MIRA Safety recommends that households near a nuclear power plant keep a supply of potassium iodide pills to protect against potential radiation exposure. Local health officials and the Department of Health also endorse this practice for the protection of children and adults.

If you cannot take pills, potassium iodide is available in liquid form, which can be easier to ingest and provides the same protective benefits.

Yes, potassium iodide tablets are safe for children at school or day care centers. It is important to have a plan in place for the administration of KI in such settings to ensure the protection of children.

The World Health Organization supports the use of potassium iodide as an effective measure to protect the thyroid from radioactive iodine exposure during nuclear radiation emergencies.