Registered Malawi · PMRA

BETADINE-ORAL 100MG/ML SOLUTION

POVIDONE-IODINE

PMPB/PL1/5 SOLUTION INN generic

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

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Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.

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Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.

Sourcing - Kenya only

Registration & product details

Registration no.
PMPB/PL1/5
Registration date
06/03/2001
Expiry date
30/06/2012
Status
Registered
Active ingredient
POVIDONE-IODINE
Dosage form
SOLUTION
Strength
-
Pack size
-
Therapeutic class
-
Manufacturer / MAH
-
Applicant / LTR
-
Country of origin
-

Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:38 · updated 2026-09-15 04:32:42

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority (Malawi). Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication.

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-referenced

Povidone-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
BNF 85 (British National Formulary) p.1309 BNF 85 (British National Formulary) p.1419 BNF for Children 2019-2020 p.724 BNF for Children 2019-2020 p.806 PubChem / pathway

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

This drug in other countries

The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.