General Drug Information and Indications

IV iodide for systemic fungal infections and actinobacillosis in horses and cattle. Iodide salt injectable (sodium iodide). Mechanism: high iodide concentrations accumulate in iodide-avid tissues including fungal pathogens (Actinobacillus, Sporothrix) → direct toxicity via iodine generation; also directly suppresses thyroid hormone release at very high doses (Wolff-Chaikoff). Promotes drainage of suppurative tracts. Key information Iodine supplement/antifungal IV. IV: administer slowly. Monitor for iodism (excessive iodine signs). Used for actinobacillosis and some fungal infections in large animals.

How to Give this Medication

IV (cattle): dilute and administer slowly IV over 10–15 min. Shake well before each use. if suspension. Oral: dissolve in water; administer with feed. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

Side Effects

GI: vomiting, anorexia, salivation. Iodism: salivation, rhinorrhea, lacrimation, skin eruptions, thyroid suppression (chronic). Cattle: sloughing of skin lesions (desired with actinobacillosis treatment). Thyroid dysfunction.

Precautions

For animals Observe food animal withdrawal times for milk and meat. Monitor thyroid function. Cattle: administer IV slowly — monitor for adverse reactions. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Iodide injectable — can affect thyroid function with skin/IV exposure. Wear gloves. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Iodine overdose causes iodism: excessive salivation, weakness, and cardiac arrhythmias.

Sodium Iodide dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
SODIUM IODIDE 20% BOTTLE 250ML (NOVA TECH)——250MLCommercial
SODIUM IODIDE 20% BOTTLE 250ML (PHOENIX)—Injectable1Commercial
SODIUM IODIDE 20% BOTTLE 250ML (VETONE)—Injectable1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)