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Munich (netdoktor.de) – pharmacists warn against panic after the nuclear accident in Japan. “We advise expressly taking iodine tablets on his own”, says Erika Fink, President of the German Association of pharmacists. At the present time, there is no reason to take iodine tablets in Germany. Such a precaution is reasonable – if ever – only after explicit recommendation of the authorities. The Chamber of pharmacists stressed that the civil protection task of the Länder. Supplying the population with potassium iodide also fall under the competence of the authorities.

In a nuclear accident, radioactive iodine may be released and get over the air, food or through the skin into the body. The radiant particles can accumulate in the thyroid gland and this damage. A thyroid saturated with stable iodine takes up less of the radioactive element. Therefore it is useful when an expected exposure to take iodine tablets. This precaution is most effective if the drug is taken practically at the same time with the inhalation of radioactive iodine. Iodine pills do not protect other radioactive elements.

Usually a unique use of potassium iodide is necessary for the so-called blockade of iodine. The dose depends on the age. Adults over 45 years do without better on high doses of iodine, because this increases the risk of a serious thyroid disease. People with known iodine allergy or a hyperthyroidism should take preventive no iodine tablets. (nb)