Irradiation with radioactive iodine is a treatment used for an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or thyroid cancer. Radioactive iodine is generally given by mouth in capsule form. It enters the bloodstream and goes to the thyroid cells, which are then destroyed over time.
Patient Advice
- Overall Rating
- 3
- average of all patients
- Pain
- Inconvenience
Preparation for Radioactive Iodine Therapy:
“Prepare to be at least an arms length away from people, and farther away from children, for a period after the treatment: Ask your doctor for how long.”
“Ask your doctor any questions and keep asking a question — in different ways — until you understand the answer.”
After Radioactive Iodine Therapy:
“Report any discomfort to your doctor. Do not hesitate to communicate.”
