Iodine and potassium iodide (solution)

Generic name: iodine and potassium iodide (solution) [ EYE-oh-dine-and-poe-TAS-ee-um-EYE-oh-dide ]
Brand names: Lugol's, Strong Iodine
Dosage form: oral and topical solution (5%-10%)
Drug class: Minerals and electrolytes

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 23, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is iodine and potassium iodide?

Iodine and potassium iodide is used alone or in combination with other medicines to help prevent and treat certain types of goiters (enlarged thyroid gland).

Iodine and potassium iodide is sometimes given to control symptoms just before you undergo thyroid gland surgery.

Iodine and potassium iodide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Iodine and potassium iodide side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Iodine and potassium iodide may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• swelling in your neck or throat (enlarged thyroid, or goiter); or

• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Common side effects of iodine and potassium iodide may include:

• skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use iodine and potassium iodide if you are allergic to iodine or potassium iodide, or if you have:

• tuberculosis;

• severe allergic skin reactions;

• swelling of the larynx;

• swelling of the salivary glands; or

• increased salivation after receiving iodides.

Ask a doctor before using iodine and potassium iodide if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I take iodine and potassium iodide?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Taking more than your recommended dose will not make this medicine more effective, and may cause serious side effects.

Measure liquid medicine with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Mix the liquid with water or juice before taking.

Iodine and potassium iodide is usually taken 3 times per day.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

You may need medical tests to help determine how long you should use iodine and potassium iodide.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

What should I avoid while taking iodine and potassium iodide?

If iodine and potassium iodide accidentally gets on your skin or eyes, wash it thoroughly with water for about 15 minutes.

What other drugs will affect iodine and potassium iodide?

Other drugs may affect iodine and potassium iodide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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