Potassium iodide
Potassium Iodide
Potassium iodide (pronounced pəˈtæsiəm ˈaɪədaɪd) is a chemical compound, medication, and dietary supplement. As a medication, it is mainly used to treat hyperthyroidism and protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine.
Etymology
The term "Potassium iodide" is derived from the elements that make up the compound: Potassium (from the English word "potash", and the Arabic word "al qali", meaning alkali) and Iodide (from the Greek "iodes", meaning violet).
Usage
Potassium iodide is often used in medicine, food supplementation, and photography. In medicine, it is used to treat certain thyroid conditions, and in radiation emergencies to protect the thyroid gland. In food supplementation, it is used as a source of iodine. In photography, it is used in the development process.
Related Terms
- Iodine: A chemical element from which iodide is derived.
- Thyroid gland: An organ that uses iodine to produce thyroid hormones.
- Hyperthyroidism: A condition that potassium iodide can be used to treat.
- Radioactive iodine: A substance against which potassium iodide can provide protection.
Side Effects
Like all medications, potassium iodide can cause side effects. These may include stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or a rash. More serious side effects may include inflammation of the salivary glands, irregular heartbeat, and numbness.
Precautions
Before taking potassium iodide, it is important to inform your doctor if you are allergic to iodide or have a specific thyroid condition such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease, or an iodine deficiency.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Potassium iodide
- Wikipedia's article - Potassium iodide
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