At high doses, iodide transiently inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and release (Wolff-Chaikoff effect). Also has antifungal activity against Sporothrix schenckii by unknown mechanism. Used for thyroid storm and sporotrichosis.
At a glance
Class
Iodine Supplement / Antithyroid Agent (Acute) / Antifungal
Storage
Store at room temperature; SSKI protected from light (turns brown on exposure); stable for years
Dosing
Drug of choice for canine sporotrichosis (combined with itraconazole for resista
Cats are extremely sensitive to iodide toxicity (iodism)
Safety
Signs of iodism (salivation, vomiting, dandruff)Thyroid function (T4)Serum potassiumClinical fungal response at 4 weeks
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Potassium Iodide?
Potassium Iodide is a iodine supplement / antithyroid agent (acute) / antifungal used in pets. At high doses, iodide transiently inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and release (Wolff-Chaikoff effect). Also has antifungal activity against Sporothrix schenckii by unknown mechanism. Used for thyroid storm and sporotrichosis.
›What is Potassium Iodide used for in pets?
Potassium Iodide is used in veterinary medicine for: Drug of choice for canine sporotrichosis (combined with itraconazole for resista; Cats are extremely sensitive to iodide toxicity (iodism).
›What is the Potassium Iodide dose for dogs?
For dogs, Potassium Iodide is typically dosed as follows — Drug of choice for canine sporotrichosis (combined with itraconazole for resista: 30–100 mg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Potassium Iodide dose for cats?
For cats, Potassium Iodide is typically dosed as follows — Cats are extremely sensitive to iodide toxicity (iodism): undefined undefined PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Potassium Iodide need a prescription?
Yes. Potassium Iodide is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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