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FDA approves new liquid anti-radiation drug for all ages

The FDA has approved an abbreviated new drug application for an over-the-counter liquid anti-radiation medication intended to prevent thyroid cancer in the event of a nuclear emergency, according to Mission Pharmacal Company, which developed the drug.

According to the company, the liquid potassium iodide oral solution, a thyroid-blocking medication approved for all ages, is preferable to potassium iodine tablets for infants and small children, as it allows for accurate and precise dosing.

“Mission Pharmacal has a long history of dedication to the health and well-being of children,” Terry Herring, MBA, president of commercial operations for the company, said in a press release. “We understand the importance of providing a liquid form of potassium iodide that can help protect our nation’s most precious resource, our children, who are at greatest risk in the event of a nuclear emergency.”

The sooner a person receives potassium iodide following radiation exposure, the more effective the drug will be in preventing thyroid cancer, according to the company. Infants, children and pregnant and nursing women are among the most vulnerable to radiation poisoning.

Officials from Mission Pharmacal, based in San Antonio, said they plan to begin manufacturing the drug immediately.

Additional reading:

http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mission-pharmacal-receives-fda-approval-for-liquid-potassium-iodide-oral-solution-for-nuclear-emergency-management-300270047.html