Iodine is an essential mineral primarily used by the body to make thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development, especially in unborn babies and newborns[2][4].
Key uses of iodine include:
- Preventing and treating iodine deficiency, which can lead to goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) and other thyroid disorders[1][2].
- Supporting normal thyroid function and maintaining healthy metabolic rates[2][4].
- Protection during radiation emergencies—potassium iodide can protect the thyroid from radioactive iodine exposure[1].
- As an antiseptic in medical settings, particularly in the form of povidone-iodine for cleaning wounds, preventing infection before and after surgery, and disinfecting skin[5][7].
- Treating fibrocystic breast disease—higher doses may help reduce breast pain and tenderness in some women, though this should only be done under medical supervision[1][8].
- Supporting healthy pregnancy and fetal development, as iodine deficiency in pregnancy can result in intellectual and developmental problems for the child[2][3].
- Disinfecting drinking water in emergency and outdoor settings[3].
- Medical imaging—organic iodine compounds serve as contrast agents in certain X-ray and CT scan procedures[5].
- Treating certain infections and ulcers, such as pink eye, diabetic foot sores, oral mucositis, and periodontitis, usually with topical or solution forms of iodine[1].
- Managing thyroid conditions such as hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, and thyroid storm (a severe form of hyperthyroidism), sometimes as part of specific treatments[1][3].
References
- [1] Iodine – Uses, Side Effects, and More – WebMD
- [2] Iodine – University of Rochester Medical Center
- [3] Iodine Uses: Benefits, Side Effects, Recommendations, and More – Healthline
- [4] Iodine – NHS
- [5] Iodine (medical use) – Wikipedia
- [7] Povidone–iodine: use in hand disinfection, skin preparation and …
- [8] Iodine – Health Professional Fact Sheet – NIH