Povidone Iodine (5%) is a broad-spectrum topical antiseptic and disinfectant. It is a stable chemical complex of polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone, PVP) and elemental iodine (5% w/v, equivalent to 0.5% available iodine). It is widely used in the Indian healthcare setting for its potent microbicidal activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and spores. It works by releasing free iodine, which iodinates and oxidizes microbial proteins, nucleotides, and fatty acids, leading to cell death. Its low systemic absorption and PVP's sustained-release action make it a cornerstone of pre-procedural skin preparation, wound care, and infection prevention.
Adult: Apply topically to affected area 1-3 times daily. For pre-op skin prep: apply generously, allow to dry. For wound care: cleanse wound, apply solution/ointment. For gargle/mouthwash: Use 10-20 ml of 1% solution (dilute 5% solution 1:4 with water) 2-4 times daily.
Note: For intact skin: Apply and allow to dry completely (approx. 2-3 min). For wounds: Cleanse thoroughly with sterile saline/water to remove organic debris before application. Do not use occlusive dressings over it unless specified. For mucous membranes: Use appropriate diluted strength (e.g., 1%). Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
Povidone Iodine acts as a reservoir of free iodine. Upon contact with tissues, the complex slowly releases elemental iodine. The free iodine penetrates microbial cell walls and acts as a potent oxidizing agent. It iodinates tyrosine and histidine residues in proteins, oxidizes sulfhydryl groups in enzymes, and causes unsaturated fatty acid peroxidation in microbial cell membranes. This multi-target attack leads to denaturation and precipitation of proteins, disruption of cellular structures, and ultimately, microbial cell death.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Iodine crosses the placenta. Topical use on small areas is likely safe. Prolonged use on large areas, vaginal douching, or surgical preps for cesarean sections should be avoided due to risk of fetal hypothyroidism and goiter. Use only if clearly needed.
Driving: No effect.
| Lithium | Additive risk of hypothyroidism and goiter. | Moderate |
| Antithyroid Drugs (Methimazole, Propylthiouracil) | May interfere with therapy for hyperthyroidism. | Moderate |
| Radioactive Iodine (I-131) | Povidone iodine can block thyroid uptake, rendering diagnostic/therapeutic procedures ineffective. | Major |
| Topical Silver-based products (Silver Sulfadiazine) | Concurrent application may lead to inactivation of both agents and formation of irritating compounds. | Moderate |
Same composition (Povidone Iodine (5%)), different brands: