Potassium iodide protects the thyroid gland against exposure to radioactive iodine in the unlikely event of a radiation release from a nuclear power plant emergency. If taken in a appropriate and timely dosage, potassium iodide can block exposure of the thyroid gland to radioactive iodine. Potassium iodide is a supplemental protective measure, it is NOT an anti-radiation pill.

Most people can take potassium iodide without side effects. A small number of people could have adverse reaction. Anyone with an existing thyroid gland condition or anyone allergic to iodine should NOT take it. Consult your physician if unsure whether you should take potassium iodide.

Side effects are unlikely because of the low dose and the short time you will take the drug.

Possible side effects include skin rashes, swelling of the salivary glands, and "iodism" (metallic taste, burning mouth and throat, sore teeth and gums, symptoms of a head cold and sometimes stomach upset and diarrhea. A few people have an allergic reaction with more serious symptoms. Those could be fever and joint pain, or swelling of parts of the face and body and at times severe shortness of breath requiring immediate medical attention.

Taking iodide may rarely cause over activity, under activity or enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter.)

If the side effects are severe of if you have an allergic reaction, stop taking potassium iodide and call a doctor or public health authority for instructions.

It is very unlikely that you would suffer any ill effects if you took potassium iodide (KI) because of a false alarm or "just in case" you thought a radiological emergency was under way. The potassium iodide would simply pass through the body in a day or two.

Potassium Iodide (KI) should only be ingested upon the direction of the San Luis Obispo County Health Officer following an Emergency at the Diablo Canyon Power Plant. Any recommendation would be announced through the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and the media.

One Tablet = 65 milligrams of KI
 

No, this is a voluntary program for those who work or reside in a PAZ (zones 1-12).

No. Pre-distribution of KI tablets is free, while supplies last.

 

Recipients must be 18 years or older to pick up a supply of KI. Identification will be requested.

Yes, be sure to indicate the number of individuals on your voucher.

1. Valid identification showing you are 18 years or older.
2. The completed Voucher for Potassium Iodide (KI) for General Population
3. Proof that you live or work within the PAZ (zones 1 - 12) - for example a utility bill, Driver's License, State ID etc.

You can get a voucher by: 

• Download a copy of the Potassium Iodide Voucher
• The back of the San Luis Obispo County calendar which is mailed to all postal customers within the Public Education Zone (PEZ) before the beginning of each calendar year

KI will NOT be distributed during an emergency, so please plan ahead!

Potassium iodide can be ordered from several commercial manufactures by telephone, mail, or via the Internet. You may call the following numbers for information regarding FDA approved products.

• Iosat (Anbex, Inc.), 1-866-463-6754.
• Thyroshield, (636) 343-8200

Additional information is available on the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services website at: www.caloes.ca.gov.