Potassium Iodide, KI oral solution or syrup
Potassium Iodide, KI oral solution or syrup
What is this medicine?
POTASSIUM IODIDE, KI (puh TAS ee uhm AHY uh dahyd) is used to treat certain thyroid conditions. It is also used to prevent thyroid damage after a nuclear radiation emergency.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the package or 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. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
burning in mouth, throat
chest pain
fast, irregular heartbeat
fever with joint pain
lump or swelling on the neck
metallic taste
pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet
unusual aches, pains
unusual bleeding, bruising
unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea
headache
nausea, vomiting
upset stomach
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
other medicine for the thyroid
propylthiouracil, PTU
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
certain diuretics like spironolactone, triamterene
certain medicines for high blood pressure or heart failure like enalapril
lithium
potassium supplements
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.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. At lower than room temperature, crystals may form in this medicine. If crystals form, let the bottle warm to room temperature and shake to dissolve. Throw this medicine away if it turns brownish yellow. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
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 medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor for regular checks ups. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.
Updated:  
July 17, 2018