Povidone Iodine

Description

Povidone Iodine 5% Topical Cream

Indications:

This cream is used to treat and prevent skin infections. This includes:

• Treating existing infections such as:
  • Primary or secondary topical infections
  • Infected surgical cuts
  • Infected bedsores (decubitus ulcers) or leg ulcers (stasis ulcers)
  • Pus-filled skin infections (pyodermas)
  • Skin conditions that have become infected (secondarily infected dermatoses)
  • Infected injuries like cuts, scrapes, and wounds
• Preventing infections in:
  • Cuts and abrasions
  • Open wounds

Adult Dosage & Administration:

• For treating infection: Apply the cream once or twice daily, or whenever you change a dressing, for up to 14 days.
• For preventing infection: Apply once or twice a week, as long as needed.
• How to apply: Make sure the affected area is clean and dry before applying the cream directly. You can cover the treated area with a dressing or bandage if desired.
• As powder: Apply as often as directed. You may cover it with a dressing or bandage.

Contraindications (Do Not Use If):

• You have thyroid disorders (especially nodular colloid goitre, endemic goitre, or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis). Regular use is not recommended.
• The patient is an infant under 2 years of age.
• You are undergoing lithium therapy. Regular use should be avoided.
• Special caution is needed if you have kidney problems and are applying the cream regularly to broken skin.

Precautions (Use with Caution If):

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• The patient is a newborn (neonate).

Adverse Effects (Side Effects):

• Common: You might experience local skin irritation, sensitivity, or occasionally a mild, temporary burning or sticky sensation.
• Rare: Irritation or allergic reactions are very rare.
• Serious (due to iodine absorption): Applying this cream to large areas of broken skin, severe burns, or large wounds can lead to systemic side effects from iodine being absorbed into your body. These can include:
  • Metabolic acidosis (an imbalance in your body’s acid-base levels)
  • Hypernatraemia (high sodium levels in your blood)
  • Impairment of kidney function

Mechanism of Action:

Povidone-iodine is a type of antiseptic called an iodophore. It has a powerful, broad-spectrum germ-killing action against a wide range of bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and spores. It works by oxidizing (breaking down) components of these microorganisms and by iodinating (adding iodine to) and inactivating their proteins.

Note: Povidone Iodine 5% Cream is manufactured by Chemi Drug Industries Pvt. Ltd. Its generic name is Povidone Iodine 5% Topical, and it’s available in Nepal.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and is not intended for medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical judgment. Always consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns.