Potassium Iodide Should Only Be Taken in ‘Radiation Emergency,’ Doctors Warn

With the grim specter of nuclear conflict swirling around the world, there's now a huge demand for potassium iodide pills, a substance that may offer some protection from radiation exposure. The fears have sparked panic buying of the radiation-blocking tablets, but the CDC warns, “People should take potassium iodide only on the advice of public health or emergency management officials.” Some doctors say the tablets have limited value, like after a nuclear plant disaster.