Radioiodine therapy

Radioiodine therapy is a treatment for thyroid problems, especially overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) or certain thyroid cancers. It uses a special form of iodine that emits radiation. Since the thyroid gland naturally absorbs iodine from the blood, the radioactive iodine specifically targets and destroys overactive or cancerous thyroid cells while sparing most other body tissues. The patient swallows or receives the radioactive iodine in a capsule or liquid form. The treatment is usually done on an outpatient basis and has minimal side effects, offering an effective way to reduce or eliminate abnormal thyroid activity.