Portuguese Prepper
Potassium Iodide: IOSAT vs. ThyroSafe (Radiation Protection)
In the event of a nuclear power plant accident or detonation, the air fills with radioactive isotopes. One of the most dangerous is Radioactive Iodine-131.
Because your thyroid gland cannot tell the difference between “good” iodine and “radioactive” iodine, it will absorb the radiation, leading to thyroid cancer years later.
Potassium Iodide (KI) works by flooding your thyroid with safe iodine, effectively “filling the seats” so there is no room for the radioactive iodine to enter.
It is cheap, shelf-stable, and the only FDA-approved medication for this specific threat.
KI ONLY protects the thyroid; it does not stop radiation sickness.
Must be taken before or immediately after exposure.
Standard dosage: 130mg for adults, 65mg for children.
IOSAT vs. ThyroSafe: What’s the difference?
Both IOSAT and ThyroSafe are FDA-approved brands of Potassium Iodide. Chemically, they are identical. The difference is in the packaging and dosage.
IOSAT comes in foil strips of 130mg tablets. This is the standard adult dose.
ThyroSafe typically comes in 65mg tablets. This makes it easier to dose for children (1 pill) vs adults (2 pills).
When do you take it?
Do not take these pills “just in case.” Potassium Iodide can have side effects. You should only take it if directed by emergency broadcast authorities or if you have confirmed a nuclear release in your immediate wind path. The protective effect lasts for 24 hours.
Which pack belongs in your kit?
The “Salt” Myth
Warning: You cannot eat table salt to protect yourself. You would need to eat pounds of salt to get the required amount of iodine, which would kill you from sodium poisoning long before the radiation did. You must use concentrated KI tablets.
Related pages
Medical Disclaimer: We are not doctors. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a medical professional before taking medication.