saturated solution of potassium iodide (SSKI)
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Indications
- has been used as expectorant, but safer agents are available
- use preoperatively to reduce thyroid vascularity
- treatment of thyrotoxic crisis
- treatment of cutaneous sporotrichosis
Contraindications
Dosage
- expectorant:
- 300-650 mg after meals 3-4 times/day
- optimal dose is 1-1.5 g TID
- thyroidectomy:
- 50-250 mg TID for 10-14 days prior to surgery
- thyrotoxic crisis:
- 50-250 mg TID
- does up to 500 mg every 4 hours have been used
- cutaneous sporotrichosis:
50 mg/drop.
Adverse effects
- not common (> 10%)
- angioedema, fever, headache, urticaria, acne, goiter with hypothyroidism, metallic taste, GI upset, cutaneous & mucosal hemorrhage, eosinophilia, arthralgia, lymph node enlargement, soreness of teeth & gums, rhinitis
- other
- thyroid adenoma
- hypersensitivity reactions
- confusion
- nausea
- prolonged use may lead to hypothyroidism
Drug interactions
- lithium, anti-thyroid medications: potentiation of anti-thyroid effect
- potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors: may induce hyperkalemia
Mechanism of action
- iodine enhances secretion of respiratory fluids
- decreases mucus viscosity
- inhibition of release & synthesis of thyroid hormone