Potassium Iodide, also known as KI, is an over-the-counter salt tablet that can protect your thyroid gland when there is a chance you might be exposed to a harmful amount of radioactive iodine. Taking KI saturates the thyroid with nonradioactive iodine and prevents radioactive iodine from being absorbed. Radioactive iodine can harm your thyroid gland and can increase your risk of developing thyroid cancer years after exposure. For most individuals, taking KI is safe; however, adverse reactions are possible in persons having existing thyroid conditions and those with an allergy to iodine. Consult your physician if you have concerns about the safety of KI.

Not every radiation emergency will result in the release of radioactive iodine. KI is a supplement to the primary protective actions of evacuation and/or sheltering and should only be taken upon direction of state health officials. KI does NOT protect against other radioactive materials that might be released during a nuclear power station emergency.

Dosing instructions are available in the ThyroSafe package.RECOMMENDED DOSAGE FOR POTASSIUM IODIDE

Adults and Adolescents* (Over 150 lbs.) 130 mg - 2 TabletsChildren 3-18 yrs.** (Under 150 lbs.) 65 mg - 1 TabletInfants to Toddlers 1 month – 3 years** 32 mg - 1/2 TabletInfants Birth – 1 month** 16 mg - 1/4 Tablet

A dose of KI may be crushed to form a powder. Powdered KI may be mixed with milk, water, formula or soft foods.

*Individuals 12 to 18 years and over 150 lbs. should take the adult dose of 130 mg (two – 65 mg tablets).

**Breast feeding women receive the adult dose and their breast fed child is dosed separately.

Please note: During an emergency, KI will only be available at your designated reception center.