Iodine : Safety, Part 2

by MedlinePlus

(Page 5 of 5)

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Iodine requirements are increased during pregnancy. The U.S. recommended daily allowance of iodine for pregnant women is 220mcg daily, which is higher than the recommended daily dose for non-pregnant adults (150mcg). Iodine supplementation during pregnancy may be particularly relevant in areas of endemic iodine deficiency, such as non-industrialized nations. Iodine deficiency during pregnancy has been associated with an increased incidence of miscarriage, stillbirth, birth defects, and mental retardation. Moreover, severe iodine deficiency during pregnancy may result in congenital hypothyroidism in the newborn. In contrast, excess iodine intake by pregnant women may lead to effects of excess iodine in the fetus/newborn, including thyroid dysfunction or skin irritation.

Labor: It has been suggested to avoid topical use of povidone-iodine for perianal preparation during delivery or postpartum antisepsis due to possible iodine absorption by the newborn, or absorption by the mother leading to increased breastmilk iodine concentrations. Other reports suggest that this may not be a significant concern.

Breastfeeding: The U.S. recommended daily allowance of iodine for breastfeeding women is 290mcg daily, which is higher than the recommended daily dose for non-pregnant adults (150mcg). Iodine supplementation during breastfeeding may be particularly relevant in areas of endemic iodine deficiency, such as non-industrialized nations. Infants are particularly vulnerable to the effects of iodine deficiency, and iodine deficient women may not be able to provide sufficient iodine in their breastmilk.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

Amiodarone (Cordarone): Amiodarone contains significant amounts of iodine. Plasma iodine levels may be increased and additive with iodine supplements. Thyroid function should be monitored.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB): Concomitant use of these drugs with potassium iodide increases the risk of hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels). Examples of ACE inhibitors include benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), moexipril (Univasc), perindopril (Aceon), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), and trandolapril (Mavik). The ARBs include losartan (Cozaar), valsartan (Diovan), irbesartan (Avapro), candesartan (Atacand), telmisartan (Micardis), and eprosartan (Teveten).

Antithyroid drugs (methimazole, propylthiouracil): Additive hypothyroid effects may occur with the use of iodine products in combination with antithyroid drugs.

Lithium: Additive hypothyroid effects may occur with the use of iodine products such as potassium iodide in combination with lithium salts. Lugol solution can increases lithium toxicity by inducing additive hypothyroid effects.

Potassium-sparing diuretics: Concomitant use of potassium iodide with potassium-sparing diuretics may increase the risk of hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels). Examples of potassium-sparing diuretics include spironolactone (Aldactone), Triamterene (Dyrenium), and amiloride (Midamor).

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

Selenium: Selenium deficiency may exacerbate the effects of iodine deficiency.

Bugleweed ( Lycopus virginicus/Lycopus europaeus ):Bugleweed may reduce iodine uptake.

Kelp/Seaweed/Bladderwrack: High iodine content can be found in kelp/seaweed/bladderwrack, and may add to the effects of iodine supplementation.

Lithospermum: Ingestion of this herb may lower thyroid hormone blood levels, and may interact with the effects of iodine on thyroid hormone levels.

Interactions with Foods

Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, legumes, cassava: Some plants may interfere with iodine absorption and increase the risk of iodine deficiency when eaten regularly, particularly in low-iodine regions, including cabbage, Brussels sprouts, legumes, and cassava.

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