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Sodium iodide I 131 (By mouth)

Brand Name(s):

Iodotope

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to sodium iodide I 131. You should not receive this medicine if you are pregnant. You should not receive this medicine if you have vomiting or diarrhea.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are using other thyroid medicine such as Levoxyl® or Synthroid®. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are breast feeding.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are under 30 years old.
You will be exposed to dangers of radiation while using this medicine. Talk to your doctor about this risk and the precautions that you might need to take.
This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Pain on swallowing.
Pain or swelling of your cheek.
Pale skin or lip color.
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Cough, sore throat, or body ache.
Loss of hair.
Mild nausea or vomiting.
Tenderness and swelling of the neck.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor:

Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010

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