Potassium Iodide

Treatment of cutaneous/subcutaneous fungal infections (sporotrichosis, pythiosis) and iodine deficiency; expectorant. Iodide salt (potassium iodide). Mechanism: at pharmacological doses, high iodide concentrations inhibit thyroid hormone synthesis (Wolff-Chaikoff effect); also accumulates in hypersecretory tissues (sporotrichosis/pythiosis) with direct fungicidal effect via iodine release. Expectorant: iodide stimulates increased respiratory tract secretion. Oral administration. Key information IV potassium: NEVER give undiluted IV bolus — fatal cardiac arrest. Maximum IV rate 0.5 mEq/kg/hr. Monitor ECG during IV administration. Oral supplementation is safer route.

Oral (SSKI): dilute in water or juice to reduce GI irritation; administer with food. Mix into grain for horses. Administer at consistent times daily. Store at room temperature; protect from light. Protect from light. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.

GI: vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea (common with oral use). Iodism (excessive iodide): salivation, nasal discharge, skin eruptions, thyroid suppression. Thyroid dysfunction. Cats: more sensitive to iodide toxicity (skin lesions, anorexia, hypothermia).

For animals Monitor thyroid function with prolonged use. Cats: more sensitive to iodide toxicity — monitor closely for anorexia, skin lesions, and hypothyroidism. Avoid in patients with hyperthyroidism unless as part of pre-surgical preparation. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Iodide salt — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Can affect thyroid function with human exposure. Keep out of reach of children.

Contact your veterinarian. Potassium iodide overdose causes iodism: excessive salivation, nasal discharge, skin changes, and GI signs.