Potassium iodide is used to treat an overactive thyroid gland, to prepare for thyroid surgery and to protect the thyroid from radiation effects from inhaled or swallowed radioactive iodine. Several side effects are possible, but most are uncommon.
Temporary Side Effects
Potassium iodide can cause acne, loss of appetite or stomach upset for the first few days a person takes the medication. These effects usually are temporary.
Other Side Effects
Other possible side effects include diarrhea, joint pain, nausea or vomiting, stomach pain and swelling of lymph glands.
Allergic Reaction
Rarely, some people have an allergic reaction to potassium iodide. Symptoms include rash or hives, and swelling of arms, legs, throat, face or mouth.
Long-Term Use
Long-term use of can cause many other side effects. These include headaches, irregular heartbeat, metallic taste, nasal congestion, numbness or tingling in the feet or hands, skin and gum sores, tiredness and weakness.
Warning
Potassium iodide is usually taken as an oral solution, a syrup or a tablet. A delayed-release potassium iodide tablet is available, but this can cause severe side effects of small bowel lesions. These can result in bowel hemorrhage, obstruction and perforation, and sometimes the damage can be fatal.
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