BETADINE ANTISEPTIC 100MG/1ML SOLUTION
POVIDONE-IODINE
What it does
Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic used to help prevent infections in wounds and prepare skin before surgery.
Commonly used for: skin disinfectant, wound care, pre-surgical skin preparation
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:45 · updated 2026-09-15 04:32:43
About this medicine
Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic used to help prevent infections in wounds and prepare skin before surgery.
What it treats
- skin disinfectant
- wound care
- pre-surgical skin preparation
How it works
Povidone-iodine works by killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, helping to clean and protect the affected area.
Who it's for
It is suitable for anyone needing to clean wounds or prepare their skin for surgery, unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Povidone-iodine
BNF-referencedPovidone-iodine is a broad-spectrum antiseptic used for skin disinfection and as an antiseptic agent in eye procedures. It is effective against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, making it a versatile choice in clinical settings. Povidone-iodine is particularly used prior to ocular surgery to ensure a sterile environment and prevent infections.
Indications
- Skin disinfection
- Ocular antisepsis before surgery
- Treatment of conjunctivitis
- Prevention of infection in minor wounds
Dosage
Children: Refer to product literature for specific dosing recommendations for children, as doses may vary based on the formulation used.
Adults: For ocular antisepsis, apply povidone-iodine solution to the eye area, leave for 2 minutes, then irrigate thoroughly with sodium chloride 0.9%. For skin disinfection, consult product literature for specific dosing instructions.
Mechanism of action
Povidone-iodine releases free iodine, which penetrates microbial cell walls, leading to the disruption of protein synthesis and cellular metabolism. This mechanism results in the bactericidal and virucidal activity of the compound, effectively reducing microbial load on skin and mucous membranes.
Pharmacodynamics
The antiseptic properties of povidone-iodine arise from its ability to disrupt cellular protein synthesis in microorganisms. The solution is effective at low concentrations, and its broad-spectrum activity includes efficacy against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as viruses and fungi. The rapid action of povidone-iodine makes it suitable for preoperative disinfection and wound care.
Pharmacokinetics
Povidone-iodine is primarily used topically, and systemic absorption is minimal when applied to intact skin. When used in ocular applications, the solution can be absorbed across the conjunctival membrane, although the extent of systemic absorption is low. The elimination of iodine from the body primarily occurs via renal pathways, and the half-life can vary based on the route of administration.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to povidone-iodine or any of its components
- Concomitant use of ocular formulations containing mercury-based preservatives
- Use in preterm neonates
Adverse effects
- Eye erythema
- Punctate keratitis
- Eye irritation (upon prolonged administration)
- Eye pain
- Headache
- Hypotension
- Common or very common side effects include eye stinging, nausea, syncope, and blurred vision
Interactions
- Potential interaction with ganciclovir when used in eye procedures
Precautions
- Caution in patients with hypersensitivity to aciclovir, valaciclovir, or famciclovir
- Avoid regular or excessive use during breastfeeding
Pregnancy
Manufacturer advises caution due to potential teratogenic effects observed in animal studies; effective contraception is recommended during treatment.
Breast-feeding
Manufacturer advises avoiding use unless no suitable alternative is available; limited information on safety.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Povidone-iodine 5% eye drops
- Povidone-iodine skin cleanser
- Povidone-iodine antiseptic solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
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