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How Prussian blue works
Prussian blue is a pill that may be used in a radiation emergency to help remove radioactive cesium (Cs) and thallium (Tl) from inside a person’s body.
Prussian blue traps radioactive cesium and thallium in the intestines and keeps them from being reabsorbed by the body.
The radioactive materials then move through the intestines and are passed (excreted) in bowel movements.
Because 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.
Prussian blue is available only by prescription. Public health and medical professionals will determine if Prussian blue is needed.
People SHOULD NOT take Prussian blue artist’s dye in an attempt to treat themselves. This type of Prussian blue is not designed to treat radioactive contamination and can be harmful.
Learn more. Visit Radiation Emergencies.