Potassium iodide is a chemical compound, medication, and dietary supplement.

[1][2] As
a medication it is used to treat hyperthyroidism, in radiation emergencies, and to protect
the thyroid gland when certain types of radiopharmaceuticals are used.[3] In
the developing world it is also used to treat skin sporotrichosis and phycomycosis.[3][4] As
a supplement it is used in those who have low intake of iodine in the diet.[2] It is given by
mouth.[3]
Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash, and swelling of
the salivary glands.[3] Other side effects include allergic reactions, headache, goitre,
and depression.[4] While use during pregnancy may harm the baby this use is still
recommended in radiation emergencies.[3] Potassium iodide has the chemical
formula KI.[5] Commercially it is made by mixing potassium hydroxide with iodine.[6]
Potassium iodide has been used medically since at least 1820.[7] It is on the World
Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines
needed in a health system.[8] Potassium iodide is available as a generic
medication and over the counter. In the United States a course of treatment is less than
25 USD.[9] Potassium iodide is also used for the iodization of sal