Disclaimer: What follows is not to be considered medical advice, in any way, be either myself or by anoyne referred to in this article. Please do your own research and make your own decissions.
With the threat of nuclear war looming over our heads, many preppers are looking for Potassium Iodide tablets that can saturate the thyroid gland and prevent radioactive iodine from being absorbed, vastly reducing the risk of thyroid cancer, which is a common effect of radioactivity. The problem is that there is none to be found.
Dr Joe Alton from Doom and Bloom had the following to say about the situation…
“Having potassium iodide or iodate tablets on hand in these troubled times is a good idea. The current crisis, however, has led to a run on all forms of potassium iodide in both Europe and across the pond. Our own store ran out of potassium iodide within 2 days and it seems that there are few, if any, other sources selling it commercially. If they exist, they’re selling it at outrageous prices.”
There is an alternative though, Lugol’s Solution. The solution is sold as a 2% solution. How much should you take? Let’s go back to the doctor for that…
“Lugol’s is most commonly available as a 2% solution. Each drop at that concentration contains approximately 2.5-3 mg of iodine. 20 drops equals a milliliter. Therefore, 1 milliliter of 2 percent Lugol’s equals about 65 mg, the same dose as a Thyrosafe tablet.
130 mg is the daily adult dose in a radiation event, so 2 ml orally should be sufficient to block radioactive iodine in those over 12 years of age and over 150 pounds (about 70 kg). For children over the age of 3- or adults less than 150 pounds, 1 ml or 65 mg should suffice as a daily dose. For small children over 1 months to three years, ½ milliliter or 32 mg iodine should be enough. For newborns, ¼ ml or 16 mg.”
Dr Alton also has some thoughts about administering Lugol’s Solution…
“By the way, this product should be taken with a full glass of water or in fruit juice, milk, or broth to improve the taste and lessen stomach upset.
Be aware that radiation levels generally drop to 10% of the original level in the first day, much more after that. This means that you might need only one dose total to get adequate protection. The earlier you take it before or during an exposure, the more effect it has. In total, you should not take it for more than a few days or you can develop some pretty serious adverse reactions. Only take it until significant risk of exposure to radioactive iodine no longer exists. As I mentioned in a recent article, time spent under shelter and increased distance from ground zero are your friends when it comes to radiation.”
Lugol’s Solution has popped up for sale on Amazon and other sites, however, if you find yourself in need, I would highly recommend going to Dr Bones & Nurse Amy’s site, Doom And Bloom dot net. They have supported not only this blog, but a variety of Canadian prepper resources. Just in case anyone is wondering, yes, I have met them in person and they are even more helpful and friendly in person as they appear to be online. Two awesome folks that have done an incredible service to preppers everywhere.
Stay safe folks and good luck.
PS. While you go get your Ludol’s Solution, pick yourself up a copy of The Survival Medicine Handbook!
