Povidone Iodine
Uses of Povidone Iodine
Povidone Iodine is commonly used to treat vaginal irritations, mouth & throat infections, pyoderma & seborrheic dermatitis as well as antiseptic and prophylaxis of ocular infections after surgical procedures.
How Povidone Iodine Works
Povidone Iodine has a broad-spectrum germicidal activity against a wide range of organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
Side Effects of Povidone Iodine
Hypersensitivity, Rash, Local irritation, Hypo or hyperthyroidism with long term use
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
It is safe to use Povidone Iodine in a patient with kidney impairment
Alcohol Safe
Povidone Iodine is less likely to interact with the consumption of alcohol as it usually used as a topical medication.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Povidone Iodine is not recommended to be used in pregnancy, as there are risks of thyroid function disorder in the offspring of a mother that was exposed to pharmacological doses of iodine. Only use this medication if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving Generally Safe
Povidone Iodine is unlikely to affect the ability to drive and operate machines.
Liver Use With Care
It is safe to use Povidone Iodine in a patient with liver impairment
Lactation Not Advisable
Iodine is secreted in breastmilk, therefore it is not recommended for Povidone Iodine to be used in breastfeeding mothers unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
