How Long Does Radioactive Iodine Take To Show Effect?

Posted on Sun, 3 Jul 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 3 Jul 2016 Answered on

Wed, 20 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : How long does it take for your thyroid levels to return to normal after receiving radiosotope iodide?

After I came off steroids the first time, I developed severe muscle cramps. Will that happen this time when I come off of 2weeks of Prednisone>

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Supportive care

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

I read your question and i understand your concern. Return to euthyroid state after radioactive iodine ablation is purely variable and may return to normal in a week to months. So not sure and not possible to give you exact time frame, frequent follow ups of thyroid hormones and monitoring will sort it out.

As far as body cramps and muscle pains are concerned , yes one can feel after withdrawal or tapering from steroids. Take some ibuprofen for the relief. No worries, the effect will wear off.

I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please.

Regards
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar