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Preparedness

Iodine tablets: who, when and why

Iodine tablets are a simple, over-the-counter protective measure in nuclear incidents. Here is who should keep them at home, who should take them – and why you must never take them on your own initiative. The page works without internet once you have visited it.

Never take iodine tablets without instruction from the authorities. In a real event the message comes through NRK and dsa.no. This is general information, not medical advice – always follow the package leaflet and Helsenorge.

Who should keep iodine tablets at home?

Iodine tablets protect the thyroid gland against radioactive iodine in a nuclear incident. They matter most for the youngest.

Should keep them at home

  • Children and young people under 18.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
  • Adults under 40.
  • Households where children live.

Less relevant

  • Adults over 40 have very low risk and usually do not need them.
  • If you have had your thyroid gland removed, you do not need them.

Important to know

  • The tablets are sold over the counter at pharmacies.
  • Iodine dietary supplements are not the same and cannot replace iodine tablets.

When and how should they be taken?

Iodine tablets are taken only when the authorities say so – never on your own initiative.

How you will be told

  • Information is given through NRK, the DSA (dsa.no) and other official channels.
  • Tablets are often recommended together with staying indoors for up to two days.
  • The dose is on the packet and at Helsenorge – follow it, by age.

Priority groups

  • Children and young people under 18, pregnant and breastfeeding women take them first – they have the highest risk of thyroid cancer.
  • Adults 18–40 may be advised to take them in special situations.

Do not do this

  • Do not take iodine tablets without instruction from the authorities.
  • Do not take them if you are allergic to potassium iodide or any other ingredient.
  • If you have a thyroid condition or dermatitis herpetiformis, speak to a doctor about follow-up.

How big is the risk, really?

There is little reason for concern day to day.

The authorities (DSA) assess that even a large release in Ukraine, with wind towards Norway, would not make it necessary to take iodine tablets in Norway.

The point of keeping the tablets at home is readiness: then you have them ready should a nearby event ever require it, and you avoid a trip to the pharmacy in a tense situation.

This is one piece of preparedness. Water, food, heat and information are still the most important things for the vast majority of incidents.

Sources: DSA (the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority), Helsenorge and DSB. In case of conflict, the authorities' own channels and the package leaflet always apply.