Potassium iodide is an expectorant. It thins mucus secretions in the respiratory tract that may be caused by chronic respiratory problems such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.

Potassium iodide is also used to protect the thyroid gland from radiation injury before and following administration of radioactive iodide (e.g., for diagnostic purposes) and in radiation emergencies (e.g., accidental exposure to radiation).

Before taking potassium iodide, talk to your doctor if you have:

- a history of previous allergic reaction to iodide, iodine, or other medicines;
- Addison's disease;
- dehydration;
- a high level of potassium in the blood (hyperkalemia);
- cystic fibrosis;
- tuberculosis;
- thyroid problems;
- goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland); or

- kidney problems.

You may not be able to take potassium iodide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Potassium iodide is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take potassium iodide without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Potassium iodide passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take potassium iodide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Stop taking potassium iodide and seek emergency medical attention if you experience a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take potassium iodide and talk to your doctor if you experience:

- nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, or stomach pain;
- mild skin rash; or
- a metallic taste in the mouth.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Take potassium iodide exactly as directed. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Take the oral solution with water or another beverage as directed by your doctor.

It is important to take potassium iodide regularly to get the most benefit.

Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with potassium iodide to monitor progress and side effects.

Keep POTASSIUM IODIDE in the original container and keep the container closed. Store it in a dry place at room temperature.

Keep POTASSIUM IODIDE and all medications out of the reach of children.