What is Lugol solution? Mode of action and potential side effects of Lugol solution
Wojciech Wiśniewski
2026-03-19
3 min. read
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Lugol solution after the Chernobyl disaster gained immense popularity, particularly as a means given to children, to provide the thyroid with such a large amount of iodine that it would not be able to absorb the radioactive isotope of iodine from radioactive vapors. Nowadays, the solution has gained popularity in the prevention of thyroid diseases. But is it safe at all? What is the mode of action of Lugol solution?
It's the Lugol fluid
Lugola fluid is composed of 97% distilled water, 2% potassium iodine and 1% iode. It was developed in 1829 by the French physician Jean Lugola, in Poland is particularly associated with the Chernobyl power plant explosion.
Lugol fluid is in operation
It is bactericidal, helps to fight flu, sore throat, detoxify wounds and surface skin damage. It is also helpful in the treatment of the thyroid. Iodine from Lugola fluid directly affects the so-called Wolff-Chaikoff effect, which is to inhibit the synthesis and release of thyroid hormones (given up to 10 days before the procedure to remove all or part of the gland). However, it is believed that evidence for guidelines for preoperative use of Lugola iodine is insufficient.
Lugol fluid has side effects
High doses of iodine can be dangerous to the body and can be associated with the activation of the thyroid gland, leading to its overactivity, the formation of a thyroid that is difficult to fight, and allergy. The use of Lugola fluid is not a good idea, especially for people who are overly sensitive to Lugola, who may experience inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nasal mucosa, skin inflammation with the lining of the bladder, and may lead to the development of acne, which is very difficult to combat, as well as allergies.