Povidone-iodine

Disinfectant. Consists of polyvinylpyrrolidone of different chain length and contains iodine in a complex bond. Its disinfecting effect is ultimately based on the action of free iodine.

The substance is soluble in water and ethanol, but not in acetone and ether.

• Solution/Cream/Ointment/Gel: Apply once/day to the affected areas.
• For infections in the vaginal area: 1 vaginal suppository of 200 mg or an applicator filling (5 g) of the 10% gel should be inserted deep into the vagina.

• 1% solution for flushing body cavities.
• 7.5% solution for mouth rinsing.
• 3,25-10% solution/cream/ointment/gel.

Allergic reactions ( contact allergy). Povidone-iodine is a common contact allergen in the IVDK collective. The substance has a high irritant potential (Ammann PM et al. 2018).

Pain when applied to the wounds, metabolic acidosis, electrolyte disorders, hyperthyroidism, thyrotoxicosis (in case of latent thyroid dysfunction), renal insufficiency, delayed wound healing.

Anaphylactic reactions have also been described to the carrier substance (see below polyvinylpyrrolidone).

• Povidone-iodine solution 10%.
• Povidone-iodine ointment 10%, hydrophilic, soft - NRF 11.17.
• Povidone-iodine sugar ointment - NRF 11.42.

1. Ammann PM et al (2018) Disinfectants. Allergo J 27:16-18