Indications

Povidone Iodine is an antiseptic preparation used for various therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, available in different forms:

• Cream/Ointment: Used for primary or secondary topical infections, infected incisions, ulcers, pyodermas, and infected lesions. Also used prophylactically to prevent infection in burns, incisions, and minor cuts or wounds.
• Solution: Used for the prevention and treatment of surface infections, for pre-operative skin preparation, disinfection of wounds, burns, and abrasions, and for oral moniliasis.
• Gargle & Mouthwash: For treating acute mouth and throat infections and for oral hygiene before and after dental surgery.
• Surgical Scrub: An antiseptic skin cleanser for surgeons and operating room staff, and for pre-operative patient skin preparation.
• Powder: For superficial wounds, minor cuts, burns, abrasions, and lacerations to treat and prevent infections.
• Ophthalmic Solution: For symptomatic treatment of dry eye conditions.

Pharmacology

Povidone-Iodine is a complex of iodine and povidone. This complex provides a sustained release of elemental iodine, which gives it a broad-spectrum microbicidal activity against bacteria (both Gram-positive and Gram-negative), viruses, fungi, protozoa, and spores. It is non-staining and remains active even in the presence of blood, pus, and other bodily secretions.

Dosage & Administration

• Cream/Ointment: Apply once or twice daily for treatment, or once or twice a week for prevention.
• Solution: Apply full strength as needed as a paint, spray, or wet soak.
• Gargle & Mouthwash: Adults and children over 6 years: Gargle or rinse with up to 10 mL for 30 seconds, up to 4 times daily. Do not swallow.
• Surgical Scrub: For hand scrubbing, apply about 5 mL and scrub for 5 minutes. For patient skin prep, apply about 1 mL per 20-30 square inches, scrub for 5 minutes, then rinse off.
• Powder: Apply a light dusting to the affected area.
• Ophthalmic Solution: Instill 1 drop into the conjunctival sac 4 times daily or as needed.

Interaction

• It interacts with strong alkalis, sodium thiosulphate, sodium metabisulphite, and thiomersal.
• Concurrent use with lithium therapy may lead to a hypothyroid effect.

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to the components.
• Avoid regular use in patients with thyroid disorders (especially nodular goitre, endemic goitre, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis) or those on lithium therapy.
• Do not use the powder in serious cavities or on children under 2 years of age.

Side Effects

Povidone-Iodine can cause hypersensitivity reactions and irritation of the skin and mucous membranes. Applying it to large or severely burned areas may lead to systemic side effects like metabolic acidosis and renal impairment. It can also interfere with thyroid function tests.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Regular use of Povidone-Iodine in any form is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation due to the risk of iodine absorption affecting the fetal or infant thyroid. Consult a physician.

Precautions & Warnings

• General: For deep or serious wounds or burns, consult a physician. Discontinue use if irritation, swelling, or pain persists. Avoid prolonged exposure to wet solution on the skin to prevent irritation.
• Gargle & Mouthwash: Avoid prolonged use to prevent iodine absorption. Do not use for more than 14 days without medical advice. Not for children under 6 years.
• Surgical Scrub: Caution is needed for regular use on broken skin in patients with renal insufficiency. It can permanently discolor white gold jewelry.
• Powder: For external use only; do not administer internally.
• Ophthalmic Solution: Patients should not drive or use machinery if vision becomes blurred after use. Remove contact lenses before instillation and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting. Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface.

Therapeutic Class

Povidone-Iodine is in the class of Iodine compounds (Anti-septic Preparations).

Storage Conditions

Store below 25°C, in a cool, dry place, protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children. Discard the ophthalmic solution one month after opening.