Radioactive Iodine

What To Expect After Treatment

Within days, the radioactive iodine passes out of your body in your urine and saliva. How long it takes will depend on the dose you received and your age. Young people get rid of radioactive iodine faster than older adults.

Most people don't feel different after treatment. But a few people may feel a little nauseated.

Your doctor will give you written instructions. To avoid exposing other people to radioactivity, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. He or she will instruct you on how far to stay away from people, how long you need to sleep alone, and other ways to stay safe. You will be directed to avoid close contact, kissing, sex, and sharing cups, dishes, or utensils.

Some general recommendations include:^{footnote 1}

• Flush the toilet twice each time you use it.
• Wash your hands well with soap and lots of water each time you use the toilet.
• Use separate towels, washcloths, and sheets. Wash these and your personal clothing by themselves and not with other people's laundry.
• You may want to use a special plastic trash bag for all your trash, such as bandages, paper or plastic dishes, menstrual pads, tissues, or paper towels. Talk to your treatment facility to see if they will handle the disposal. Or after 80 days, this bag can be thrown out with your other trash.
• Don't cook for other people. If cooking is necessary, use plastic gloves and throw them away in the special plastic trash bag.
• Wash your dishes in a dishwasher or by hand. If you use disposable dishes, they must be thrown away in the special plastic trash bag.