Radioiodine therapy is a safe and effective treatment for hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and certain thyroid cancers.
Radioiodine therapy uses a radioactive form of iodine called I-131. When taken orally, the radioiodine travels to the thyroid gland and releases radiation,destroying thyroid cancer cell in the thyroid gland and any that may have spread to other parts of the body.
Note: Radioiodine therapy is generally ineffective for anaplastic and medullary thyroid cancers, as these cancers do not absorb radioactive iodine. Alternative treatment options, such as surgery, external beam radiation, targeted therapy, or chemotherapy, may be recommended.