DoseFacts

Povidone-iodine: Uses, How It Works, Medicines

Also in: ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ଓଡ଼ିଆ

Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic that is put on the skin to reduce germs. It is used to help prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes and burns. It is for external use only.

Also known as: PVP-I, Povidone iodine, Iodine antiseptic, Betadine, Antiseptic solution

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Povidone-iodine at a glance. Used for: Preventing infection in minor cuts, scrapes and burns. Ask a doctor first: Thyroid disorder, Past allergy to iodine. Get medical help quickly for: A wound that gets worse or does not heal, Deep or puncture wounds, animal bites or serious burns, Use for more than 1 week. Taking too much: It is for external use only. If it is swallowed, get medical help or call a poison centre straight away: call 112. Dose: follow the label or your doctor's advice.

How does Povidone-iodine work?

It slowly releases iodine, which damages the cells of bacteria, viruses and fungi on the surface of the skin.

Who should be careful

  • External use only; keep out of the eyes and away from large areas of the body
  • Do not use longer than 1 week unless a doctor directs you to
  • Deep or puncture wounds, animal bites and serious burns need a doctor
  • Do not use if you are sensitive to iodine; ask a doctor first if you have a thyroid disorder
  • Stop and ask a doctor if the wound gets worse or does not heal

Type of medicine

Povidone-iodine belongs to this type of medicine.

Medicines that contain Povidone-iodine

These medicines sold in India contain Povidone-iodine. They are listed A to Z, not ranked.

  • Betadine · 5% w/v (VERIFY on pack) antiseptic solution for the skin

What is Povidone-iodine used for?

Medicines that contain Povidone-iodine are used for these conditions.

Common questions

Can povidone-iodine be swallowed?

No. It is for external use only. If it is swallowed, get medical help or call a poison centre straight away. Keep the bottle out of the reach of children.

How long can I keep using it on a wound?

Labels say not to use it for longer than 1 week unless a doctor directs. If a wound is deep, dirty, from a bite or not improving, see a doctor rather than continuing to apply it.

Sources

  1. Povidone iodine solution, first aid antiseptic: OTC drug label. DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
  2. Betadine 5% sterile ophthalmic prep solution (povidone-iodine): prescribing label (revised 6/2022). DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
  3. Cuts and grazes. NHS (UK)
  4. ATC/DDD Index: D08AG02 povidone-iodine. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology