Fenton Company Ramps Up Production of Radiation Safeguard Drug

, 1733 Gilsinn Ave., Fenton, is ramping up production of an over-the-counter drug called ThyroShield,which provides thyroid protection in radiation emergencies, according to a company statement.

ThyroShield is an over-the-counter liquid potassium iodide solution which, when taken orally, saturates the thyroid gland so radioactive iodine cannot be absorbed. ThyroShield is especially effective for babies and children, who are most at risk during radiation exposure.

"The March 11 incident at Japan's Fukushima Daiichi power plant has increased awareness of the need for preparedness in the event of a major nuclear emergency," said Phill Dritsas, president of Fleming Pharmaceuticals, in a statement. "Based on the number of inquiries we have received in the past month from governments, hospitals and others around the world, it is clear to us that we need to do everything within our power here at Fleming to help meet the need for global and domestic relief. We've responded by taking steps to ensure that we can significantly increase production of ThyroShield."