More about Povidone-Iodine

What is Povidone-Iodine?

Povidone-iodine is a complex of free iodine and the synthetic carrier polymer povidone. In an aqueous medium, the povidone complex will release free iodine into the solution to kill germs.

Why we choose povidone-iodine?

Researches had suggested that povidone-iodine has many characteristics that made it highly effective for acute and chronic wound treatment:

• It reacts in a shorter time and has a broader spectrum of antimicrobial activity. Povidone-iodine is effective against bacteria, several viruses, fungi, spores, protozoa, and amoebic cysts.

• Lack of resistance: povidone-iodine develops less resistance relative to other antiseptics and antibiotics over 150 years of use.

• Efficacy against biofilms: Sometimes, biofilms can form on the wound surface, which can delay wound healing and promote bacterial survival in the antimicrobial therapies. Povidone-iodine could sustain its efficiency in the presence of biofilms or inhibited biofilms formation.

• Good tolerability: Clinical tests showed that povidone-iodine is tested less toxic to cells and induces a less allergic reaction.

Drug facts:

Active ingredient

Povidone-Iodine, USP, 10% w/w (equivalent to 1% titratable iodine)

Inactive ingredients

Purified water, sodium hydroxide

Uses:

A broad-spectrum antiseptic for topical application for preparation of the skin prior to surgery.

First aid antiseptic to help prevent the risk of skin infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.

Consult a healthcare provider in case of:

• Deep or puncture wounds

• Animal bites

• Serious burns

• If you are pregnant

Directions:

• Remove applicator by end of swabstick

• Apply to wound

• Allow drying

For external use only. Keep out of reach of children.

If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Centre right away.

Discontinue use if irritation and redness develop. If the condition persists for more than 72 hours or gets worse, consult a healthcare provider.

Other information:

Store at room temperature. Avoid excessive heat.

WARNINGS against the use of povidone-iodine:

• In the eyes, nose, or mouth.

• On individuals who are allergic or sensitive to iodine.

• Certain people (pregnant women, burn victims, patients with thyroid disorders/kidney dysfunction, or patients receiving radio-iodine therapy) should seek doctor advice PRIOR to using.

• Over large areas of the body.

• As a first aid antiseptic longer than one week unless directed by a doctor.

SBC contents

References:

Bigliardi PL, Alsagoff SAL, El-Kafrawi HY, Pyon JK, Tse CCW, Villa MA. Povidone-iodine in wound healing: A review of current concepts and practices. International Journal of Surgery 44, pages 260-268, 2017.

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