What is Potassium Iodide (Antidote): Uses, Warnings & Interactions

What is Potassium Iodide (Antidote): Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025 • Published Dec 30, 2020

Check our best Potassium Iodide (Antidote) prices

Potassium Iodide (Antidote) overview

BRAND NAMES:

SSKI, ThyroShield

Generic Names:

Potassium Iodide (Antidote)

Uses:

Loosens mucus in your chest and lungs. Also protects your thyroid gland from radiation.

Therapeutic Classes:

Antithyroid Agent, Expectorant, Iodide Supplement, Radiation Emergency, Thyroid Blocking Agent

Forms:

Liquid

How it’s taken:

By mouth

What is Potassium Iodide (Antidote) used for?

What form(s) does Potassium Iodide (Antidote) come in

Liquid

What are common Potassium Iodide (Antidote) doses?

Bottle 30ML of 65MG/ML

Common Potassium Iodide (Antidote) prescriptions

Potassium Iodide (Antidote)
30ml of 65mg/ml bottle

How to take Potassium Iodide (Antidote)

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
Drink half a glass (4 ounces) of water when you take this medicine.
Drink half a glass (4 ounces) of water when you take this medicine.
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

What to do if you miss a dose of Potassium Iodide (Antidote)

Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Keep the bottle tightly closed after use.
Oral routeAsk your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Potassium Iodide (Antidote) contraindications

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to potassium iodide. You should not use this medicine if you have an overactive thyroid or goiter (due to lack of iodine), or if you have kidney disease.

Potassium Iodide (Antidote) warnings

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Confusion, weakness, uneven heartbeat, shortness of breath, or numbness or tingling in your hands, feet or lips.

Potassium Iodide (Antidote) interactions

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Potassium Iodide (Antidote) side effects

Serious Side Effects

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Confusion, weakness, uneven heartbeat, shortness of breath, or numbness or tingling in your hands, feet or lips.
Mild nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Mild skin rash.
Pain in your joints.
Skin rash.
Stomach pain.

Less Serious Side Effects

Pain in your joints.
Stomach pain.
Lumps in your armpits or neck.
Mild skin rash.
Skin rash.
Mild nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Metallic taste in your mouth.