What Is Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Treatment?

Q: What Is Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Treatment?

RAI destroys overactive thyroid tissue. Used for hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer. Usually results in lifelong hypothyroidism requiring replacement.

RAI uses iodine-131 to destroy overactive or cancerous thyroid tissue.

For Hyperthyroidism

Single oral dose
80–90% effective
Usually results in permanent hypothyroidism
Common treatment for Graves' disease

For Thyroid Cancer

Used after thyroidectomy
Destroys remaining tissue
Treats metastases

Precautions After

Avoid pregnant women/children 5–7 days
Sleep alone
Flush toilet twice

Source: American Thyroid Association, NLM MedlinePlus.

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