What is the proof that KI works? After the 1986 Chornobyl (formerly called “Chernobyl”) nuclear accident, shifting winds blew a radioactive cloud all over Europe. As many as 3,000 people living in Ukraine, Belarus, or Russia and exposed to that radiation have already developed thyroid cancer. Poland distributed KI to its people and does not appear to have had an increase in thyroid cancer.

When should KI be taken?
KI should be used only under instruction from local health authorities, who can determine which radioactive isotopes are released during a nuclear event, and, if radioactive iodine is released, when to take KI and how long to keep taking it. Taken 6-12 hours before exposure to radioactive iodine, KI prevents the gland from absorbing radioactive iodine. KI is also protective if taken within the first few hours after exposure to radioactive iodine. People should take one dose a day while they are being exposed to radioactive iodine and one day afterward.

Not every radioactive release includes the radioactive iodine. For example, a “dirty bomb” is not likely to contain radioactive iodine because it has a short half-life.

What are the recommended KI doses?
The FDA-approved minimum KI doses are 130-mg for adults, 65 mg for children 3 to 18 years old, 32 mg for babies 1 month to 3 years, and 16 mg for newborns up to 1 month.

Is there anyone who should not take KI?
The only people who should not take KI are those who have had a major allergic reaction to iodine. Adults over age 40 do not need KI at all unless they are exposed to extremely high levels of radioactive iodine.