Potassium Iodide Pills Are Helpful - But Not A Cure-All - For Individuals Exposed To Radioactive Materials

- A University of the Sciences in Philadelphia Health Tip -

If a terrorist attack were to befall a nuclear power plant on American soil, a tiny pill may be one of the biggest defenses for nearby residents.  Potassium iodide (KI) tablets block the thyroid gland's exposure to radioactive iodine, helping to prevent the risk of thyroid cancer during a radiation emergency.  On July 5, Governor Mark Schweiker announced that Pennsylvania will join Delaware and New Jersey through a Federally funded program in providing KI tablets to individuals living within a 10-mile radius of a nuclear power plant. But will these pills shield the public from all the harmful effects radiation can cause?  Unfortunately no, says Dr. Steven Sheaffer, vice chairman of experiential learning at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia (USP).

"It is important for people to realize that potassium iodide tablets are not a cure-all against exposure to radiation," says Dr. Sheaffer.  "In fact, it only protects against one type of exposure - radioactive iodide which affects the thyroid gland.  KI tablets are a supplement to evacuation.  It is imperative that those living near nuclear power plants respond to government directives during an emergency when instructed to evacuate."

Dr. Sheaffer warns people to avoid taking a KI tablet daily.  He says individuals should only take a KI tablet immediately after they learn of a radiation accident or explosion. Administration to children is most important since they are at greatest risk of thyroid cancer after radiation exposure. It is important to know the dose for children based upon their age.

"Potassium iodide tablets should not be utilized routinely because they could cause an imbalance to the thyroid," he says.  "Short term use, except for those allergic to iodine, is very safe.  The government is expected to provide two tablets to people who live close to nuclear power plants.  The first tablet will fill up the thyroid gland, decreasing the chance that harmful radioactive iodine will enter the thyroid gland.  The second tablet, taken 24 hours later, will provide another 24 hours of protection until it is determined whether additional tablets need to be taken and the government can make them available."

If the drug proved its effectiveness, why is there such a short supply? 

"There are a number of websites that say they have potassium iodide tablets for sale, and the tablets are expected to become more available in community pharmacies as demand increases," says Dr. Sheaffer.  "The public, not just those who live near nuclear power plants, will express the need.  People concerned about being exposed to "dirty" bombs, which cause lower levels of radiation, may seek out KI tablets for safety.  I don't think it will get to the point where every household in America will have a supply, but people who have a fear of a nuclear emergency will want KI tablets. The important thing to remember is that if they are going to be effective, they must be administered as soon as possible once the risk of radiation exposure is known. The only practical way for that to happen is to have them immediately available."

To arrange an interview with Dr. Sheaffer, contact John M. Martino at (215) 895-1186 or e-mail: j.martin@usip.edu.

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