Can people take potassium iodine (KI) or other drugs to protect themselves from radiation?
Drugs are not available to protect a person from most radioactive materials. Potassium iodide, also called KI, only protects the thyroid gland from exposure to radioactive iodine, which could lead to thyroid cancer years after exposure. KI does not protect a person from the immediate effects of radiation. Where can I find additional information about nuclear power plant accidents? More information about nuclear power plant accidents can be found through the Virginia Department of Health at www.vdh.virginia.gov/EPR/Agents/Radiation, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.bt.cdc.gov/radiation/, or the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission at www.nrc.gov/what-we-do/emerg-preparedness/prepare-for-radiological-emerg.html.
