131-Iodine Treatment

What to expect during this treatment for thyroid conditions

Radioactive iodine, also known as 131-iodine treatment, is a common, well-accepted method of treating hyperthyroidism, cardiac dysfunction, or thyroid carcinoma (a type of thyroid cancer). The radioactive iodine accumulates in the thyroid gland. The radiation given off by this form of iodine decreases the function of the thyroid cells and inhibits their ability to grow, which is the goal of this treatment.

Department of Radiology, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
2014 Washington Street
Newton, MA 02462
Phone: 617-243-6600

How Do I Prepare for the Treatment?

If you’re a woman of childbearing age (13 to 50), you will need to have a pregnancy test before you receive radioactive iodine. Your referring doctor will order this test.

What Will Happen During the Treatment?

The doctor treating you will explain the procedure and the expected outcome of this therapy with you. We will ask you to sign a consent form. We will provide the treatment in the form of one capsule for you to swallow.

How Long Will the Procedure Take?

Plan on being in the Nuclear Medicine Department for 15 to 30 minutes.

What Will Happen After the Procedure?

You will need to take steps to minimize radiation exposure to your family and the general public. The radioiodine will only be in your body in insignificant amounts for the first 48 hours. Use the following guidelines to avoid unnecessary exposure to individuals around you:

• If you are a woman, you should protect against pregnancy for six months after treatment.
• Maintain a reasonable distance from others at home or at work (approximately three to six feet) for the first 48 hours, except for short periods. This is especially important if you are in regular contact with children or pregnant women.
• Do not hold children for more than a brief period.
• Do not allow small children to sleep in the same bed with you.
• Wash or dispose of any utensils or material that comes in contact with your mouth or body fluids.
• Avoid kisses for 48 hours.
• Refrain from sexual intimacy for 48 hours. If possible, it is best to sleep alone for this period.
• Suspend breastfeeding.
• Wash hands after using the restroom, and double-flush the toilet.
• Nasal excretions may contain radioactivity. Do not use handkerchiefs. Dispose of tissue in the toilet and flush.
• Avoid high-security areas where radiation monitors may be present.

Afterward, your treating doctor will dictate a report that we will forward to your referring doctor.