What are some side effects of iodine?

Common side effects of iodine include stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, headache, runny nose and a metallic taste, says WebMD. In sensitive patients, these symptoms may be more severe, causing bleeding or bruising, swelling of the face or lips, joint pain, fever and other allergic reactions, notes WebMD.

While iodine is generally safe when taken at the suggested dose, women are advised not to take iodine while pregnant, cautions MedicineNet.com. Patients with autoimmune thyroid disease may be overly sensitive to iodine. The drug may make the dermatitis herpetiformis rash worse.

Iodine may be used effectively in treating hyperthyroidism and destroying fungus, bacteria and other microorganisms.