It is a blue dye substance that can help remove certain radioactive materials from people’s bodies. It must be taken under the guidance of the Radiation Emergency Assistance Center/Training Site (REAC/TS) of the Oak Ridge Institute.

When radioactive cesium and thallium is swallowed or breathed, they will end up in the intestines. Prussian blue traps these materials in the intestines and keeps them from being absorbed by the body. The prussian blue reduces the time that radioactive cesium and thallium stay in the body, it helps limit the amount of time the body is exposed to radiation.

It’s only given when the doctor has determined that a person is internally contaminated with radioactive materials by accidentally ingesting or inhaling them. It is given in the form of 500-milligram capsules that can be swallowed whole or mixed in liquid for children to drink. The amount to be taken depends on how badly a person is contaminated. Prussian blue must be taken 3-4 times a day for up to 150 days, depending on the extent of the contamination, under the care of a doctor.

The most common side effects are an upset stomach and constipation. These side effects can be easily treated with other medications.

If you have a reaction to the drug, call your doctor or 911 immediately for medical attention. Do not drive yourself to the hospital as you may become very ill on your way.

www.orau.gov/reacts/prussian.htm

www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/uspdi/202737.html

www.bt.cdc.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention