# Cost of Radioactive Iodine Therapy

URL: https://thethyroidologist.com/topics/cost-of-radioactive-iodine/
Section: Topics
Last medically reviewed: 2025-11-15

> What radioactive iodine therapy costs, what the fee includes, and the follow-up costs to expect after treatment.

Radioactive iodine therapy is a one-off treatment for an overactive thyroid or, in selected cases, thyroid cancer. It is usually given as a single dose, so the cost is concentrated into one episode of care.
This page explains what the fee covers and what to budget for afterwards.

## What the cost includes

The fee typically covers the radioactive iodine dose itself, the nuclear medicine team, and any radiation-safety monitoring during the visit. It may also include the pre-treatment assessment.
Because the dose is individualised, the cost can vary with the amount of radioactivity required and the facility providing it.

## Costs before and after

Before treatment you may need blood tests, and sometimes a thyroid uptake scan or pregnancy test — these are usually charged separately.
After treatment, most people need levothyroxine and regular thyroid function tests. For thyroid cancer, follow-up also includes ultrasound and thyroglobulin testing, which add to the longer-term cost.

## Is it worth the cost?

For many patients, radioactive iodine offers a definitive, one-off treatment that avoids long-term antithyroid tablets or major surgery. Your specialist can weigh the cost against the alternatives for your situation.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does radioactive iodine cost?

The price depends on the dose required and the facility. Ask the nuclear medicine department for a full quote covering the dose and any monitoring.

### Are there follow-up costs?

Yes — most patients need levothyroxine and periodic blood tests afterwards, and thyroid cancer follow-up adds ultrasound and thyroglobulin testing.

### Is radioactive iodine a one-off treatment?

Usually yes. A single dose controls an overactive thyroid in most cases, though a minority of patients need a second dose.

## Disclaimer

The content on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your specific condition.

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