Ammonium Iodide

MineralIodide salt

What is it

Ammonium iodide (NH4I) is an inorganic salt that dissociates into ammonium and iodide ions in solution. In supplements it functions as a source of iodide, the bioavailable form of the essential trace mineral iodine.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Iodine deficiency

Strong Evidence

Iodide salts effectively correct deficiency and prevent goiter and cretinism, supported by decades of public health data and randomized trials of iodized salt and prenatal iodine.

How it works

Once dissolved, the iodide portion is absorbed in the small intestine and concentrated by the thyroid gland for synthesis of thyroid hormones T3 and T4. The ammonium portion enters the body's nitrogen pool and is eliminated as urea. Functionally, ammonium iodide acts as an iodide-delivery salt similar to potassium iodide.

Dosage

The RDA for iodine in adults is 150 mcg/day (220 mcg during pregnancy, 290 mcg during lactation). The tolerable upper intake level is 1,100 mcg/day for adults. Ammonium iodide is roughly 87.5% iodide by mass.

When and how to take it

No specific timing required. Taking with or without food is acceptable. Avoid combining with other high-iodine sources to prevent cumulative excess.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Ammonium iodide salt

An inorganic iodide source, less common than potassium iodide or kelp.

Iodide is rapidly absorbed

Safety

Excess iodine can cause thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroiditis. Acute high doses may cause metallic taste, burning of the mouth or throat, and gastrointestinal upset.

Who should be cautious

People with autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's, Graves'), nodular goiter, or iodine sensitivity should avoid extra iodine without medical supervision. Use caution during pregnancy beyond standard prenatal levels.

Interactions

Iodine can interact with thyroid medications (levothyroxine, methimazole, propylthiouracil), lithium, amiodarone, and ACE inhibitors. Discuss iodine supplementation with a clinician if any are in use.

Food sources

Iodized salt

Amount
76 mcg per 1/4 tsp
%DV
51%

Seaweed (varies by type)

Amount
16-2,984 mcg per 1 g
%DV
—

Cod

Amount
158 mcg per 3 oz
%DV
105%

Milk

Amount
56 mcg per 1 cup
%DV
37%

Frequently asked questions

How much iodine do I need?⌄

Adults need 150 mcg/day, pregnancy 220 mcg, lactation 290 mcg. Do not exceed 1,100 mcg/day.

Is ammonium iodide the same as potassium iodide?⌄

Both deliver iodide and act similarly once dissolved. Potassium iodide is more common in supplements and emergency products.

References

Ammonium Iodide on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ammonium Iodide (ChEBI:63040) — ChEBI link

Ammonium Iodide (PubChem CID 25487) — PubChem link

Ammonium Iodide on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Ammonium Iodide (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.