Preventive treatment with a [specific] drug prior to exposure to irradiation injury. In order for prophylaxis to be effective the following factors must be known.

(1) What - is the type of nuclear device used.
(2) Where - the nuclear device being activated.
(3) When - will the nuclear device will be triggered.
(4) What - population is liable to be irradiated.
(5) What - are the physiological effects of the treatment.

(a) Short term - will the subject be operational for active duty.
(b) Long term - effects.

If one has the above information the following course of action is recommended:

(1) Remove one-self from the detonation zone.
(2) And/or find a nuclear-safe shelter.

Consequently - prophylactic measure are not required and in most cases be avoided.

Treatment of the patient with a specific drug after the trauma. Survival is a function of:

(a) The therapeutic agent employed.
(b) Immediacy of treatment.