Iodine
Brand Names
IodineWhat is Iodine
Iodine is a mineral that produces thyroid hormones in our body. These hormones control the body's metabolism and many other important functions. Thyroid hormones are also vital for proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. Moderate doses of Iodine are important for everyone, especially infants and pregnant women.
Iodine is found in the following foods:
- Fish (cod and tuna), seaweed, shrimp
- Dairy products (milk, yogurt and cheese) and products made from grains (breads and cereals)
- Fruits and vegetables
- Iodized salt
- Processed foods such as canned soups, almost never contain iodized salt
Side effects of Iodine
Iodine commonly does not cause any serious side effects, but large doses of it can lead to the following conditions:
- blistering, crusting, irritation, itching or reddening of skin
- abdominal or stomach pain
- diarrhea
- fever
- nausea
- not being able to pass urine
- thirst, severe
- vomiting
Indication
Iodine is used in the following cases:
- Prevention of Goiter
- Conjunctivitis treatment
- Metabolism prevention
- Breast Health
- Cretinism
- Ovarian Problems
- Eye Health
- Acne treatment
- Skin Health
- Cancer treatment
- Cough Treatment
- Sterilization
- Purification of Water
Precautions
You should inform your doctor if you have a constant irritation such as itching or burning that was not present before you started using iodine.
It can also stain your skin and clothing. Alcohol may remove iodine stain on the skin. Stains on clothing can be removed by washing and rinsing them in ammonia diluted with water. Stains on starched linens can be removed by washing them in soap and water.
Dosage forms
| Age | Dose |
| Birth to 6 months | 110 mcg |
| Infants 7–12 months | 130 mcg |
| Children 1–8 years | 90 mcg |
| Children 9–13 years | 120 mcg |
| Teens 14–18 years | 150 mcg |
| Adults | 150 mcg |
| Pregnant teens and women | 220 mcg |
| Breastfeeding teens and women | 290 mcg |
