Lugol's (solution)

Lugol's is used by itself or with other medicines to help prevent and treat certain types of goiters (enlarged thyroid gland).

Lugol's is sometimes given to help control symptoms right before you have surgery on your thyroid gland.

Lugol's may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Follow all the instructions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Taking more than the recommended dose will not make this medicine more effective and may cause serious side effects.

Measure liquid medicine using the provided measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Mix the liquid with water or juice before taking.

Lugol's is usually taken 3 times per day.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

You may need medical tests to help determine how long you should use Lugol's.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Use only as directed. Inform your doctor if you are using other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

You should not use Lugol's if you are allergic to iodine or potassium iodide, or if you have:

• tuberculosis;
• severe allergic skin reactions;
• swelling of the larynx;
• swelling of the salivary glands; or
• increased salivation after receiving iodides.

Ask a doctor before using Lugol's if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, trouble breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Lugol's may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:

• swelling in your neck or throat (enlarged thyroid, or goiter); or
• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Common side effects of Lugol's may include:

• skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone accidentally swallows the medicine.

If Lugol's accidentally gets on your skin or in your eyes, rinse it off completely with water for about 15 minutes.

Other drugs may affect Lugol's, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.