The Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute sees the most promise so far in a steroid called 5-Androstenediol, brand-named “Neumune” by the institute’s corporate development partner, Hollis-Eden Pharmaceuticals. Neumune requires no refrigeration, has no known side effects, and can be packaged in disposable needles like the nerve gas antidotes now issued to troops and first responders. Five injections over five days dramatically boost survival rates in animals. So far, unfortunately, that first injection has to be given within four hours of exposure, before the damage to cells outraces the capacity for regrowth. But it is probably impossible to distribute tens of thousands of stockpiled doses across a fallout zone within four hour... OK, here's an easy, non-control freak solution -- put the stuff on the open market. Some will buy it, use it if necessary, and be healthy enough to help. Or healthy enough to stay out of the beds needed by those who didn't buy the stuff. Think generator sales in Florida. It's easier to put some of the burden/responsibility on citizens. And it'll help stop panic. When people feel they have some control over their fate, they're less likely to panic.