🧴 POVIDONE-IODINE 10%: BROAD-SPECTRUM ANTISEPTIC DEFENSE

Trusted Skin and Wound Disinfectant with Iodine Power

🧪 What is Povidone-Iodine 10%?

Povidone-Iodine 10% is a widely used topical antiseptic solution containing 10% Povidone-Iodine, which delivers 1% available iodine — the active germicidal component. It is used to cleanse, disinfect, and prevent infections in minor cuts, wounds, burns, and during preoperative skin preparation.

This formulation combines iodine with povidone, a water-soluble polymer that allows for gradual iodine release, ensuring prolonged antimicrobial action with reduced skin irritation compared to tincture of iodine.

🛡️ Key Features and Benefits

• Broad-spectrum antimicrobial: Kills bacteria (gram-positive & gram-negative), viruses, fungi, protozoa, and spores

• Non-irritating, non-staining (relatively) on skin compared to elemental iodine

• Prolonged activity through slow iodine release

• Can be used on mucous membranes and broken skin (under medical supervision)

📋 Common Indications

Povidone-Iodine 10% is used for:

• Skin disinfection prior to surgery or injections

• Cleaning minor wounds: cuts, scrapes, abrasions, lacerations

• Burn care: prevention of infection in first- and second-degree burns

• Antiseptic dressing for ulcers and pressure sores

• Gynecological use: pre-procedure vaginal antisepsis

• Dental and oral hygiene (in diluted form)

• Hand disinfection in surgical and clinical settings

💡 How It Works

Iodine disrupts the structure and function of proteins, nucleotides, and fatty acids in microbial cells, leading to rapid cell death. Povidone acts as a carrier and stabilizer, ensuring controlled iodine release and improved skin compatibility.

💊 Application Guidelines

• Apply directly to the cleaned, dry wound or skin area using sterile gauze or cotton.

• Let it air dry for full effectiveness before covering with a bandage or dressing.

• May be used multiple times daily depending on clinical need.

• Dilution may be necessary for mucosal or internal use (as prescribed).

⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• External use only, unless specifically indicated otherwise.

• Avoid use in patients with:

  • Iodine allergy

  • Thyroid disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism)

  • Pregnancy (especially near-term) or breastfeeding, unless approved by a physician

• Prolonged use on large wounds or burns may lead to:

  • Iodine absorption

  • Thyroid dysfunction

  • Metabolic disturbances

❗ Possible Side Effects

Most users tolerate Povidone-Iodine well, but side effects can include:

• Local skin irritation, redness, or itching

• Rare allergic reactions

• Iodine toxicity with excessive or prolonged use, especially in infants and those with renal issues

🔄 Storage & Handling

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight

• Keep tightly closed to prevent contamination

• Do not use if solution becomes discolored or cloudy

✅ Conclusion

Povidone-Iodine 10% is a reliable, broad-spectrum antiseptic trusted worldwide for skin and wound disinfection. With its powerful yet gentle action, it plays a vital role in infection prevention in both home care and clinical environments. Proper usage ensures safe and effective antimicrobial protection across various settings.