Betadine (Povidone-Iodine)

Any minor cut or burn can become a real problem if it gets infected. Betadine, which contains povidone-iodine as its active ingredient, works as an antiseptic. It helps prevent infection and can slow it down if it is already present in the wound.

When Can Betadine Be Used?

Betadine works against many types of infectious agents, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, fungal spores and some protozoa. Because of this, it may be used for the treatment and prevention of:

• skin infections caused by bacteria and fungi;
• vaginal yeast infection;
• mixed and non-specific vaginal infections;
• trichomoniasis;
• infection of open wounds (cuts, burns);
• preoperative disinfection of the hands and the operative area;

If you compare the yellow and green Betadine bottles, there is no difference between them, as both contain a 10% Betadine solution.

How Should Betadine Be Used?

How you use this medicine depends on where the infection or wound is and which form you are using. Betadine comes as a powder, vaginal suppositories, solution and other forms.

For intravaginal use of Betadine, a yeast infection may improve after a week of daily treatment. Insert one Betadine 200 mg suppository deep into the vagina once a day before sleep. If the infection does not clear up during this time, treatment may be continued for another week.

The use of Betadine yellow for acne is linked to the medicine's ability to kill bacteria that can contribute to clogged pores. By cleansing the area affected by acne, it may help open the pores and support the healing process. As a result, your skin condition may improve.

Betadine should be used as a spot treatment. Apply a thin layer to the pimple. Make sure the area is clean and dry before applying the medicine.

Unlike regular iodine, you may apply Betadine on open wounds. That is because it contains no alcohol, so it is less likely to irritate injured tissue.

Betadine may be used not only for treatment but also to help prevent infection. It may therefore be useful to keep it in your first aid kit.

Betadine Warnings and Contraindications

Because iodine is a key component of this medicine, some people should avoid using it. These include:

• patients with hyperthyroidism or other thyroid problems;
• patients with an allergy to iodine or any other ingredient of the product;
• patients with renal impairment.

In addition, Betadine should not be used by people who have had treatment with radioactive iodine (for example, for thyroid cancer). The medicine may also interact with some other medicines and supplements, for example when used together with lithium-containing products. That is why you should tell your healthcare provider about all medicines you are currently using.

When used intravaginally, Betadine may damage latex condoms. That is why it is better to use additional contraception during treatment and for 5 days after finishing treatment with Betadine vaginal suppositories.

Because of its antiseptic properties, the medicine may act as a spermicide. As a result, Betadine may affect a woman's ability to become pregnant. It is best not to use it if you are trying to get pregnant.

Can You Use Betadine During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?

Betadine's active ingredients can cross the placenta. Although it is not known to cause congenital abnormalities, it may affect the function of the pituitary gland in an unborn baby or make a newborn hypersensitive to iodine.

Regular use during pregnancy may be harmful to the baby. However, it may be used for a short time under medical supervision when clearly needed. One clinical trial by Hungarian researchers reported no danger from Betadine use in pregnant women at 37-40 weeks of gestation, as the risk of hypothyroidism in mature fetuses is very low.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

When Betadine is applied to the skin, side effects are more likely if it is used on large areas for a long time. However, most people do not have any problems with it.

The most common reactions to Betadine include:

• stinging and burning where it was applied;
• skin irritation or redness;
• hypersensitivity reactions to the medicine.

In extremely rare cases, serious iodine poisoning is possible if the product is used in a way that goes against a British doctor's recommendations. It may present as:

• a metallic taste in the mouth;
• dyspepsia, diarrhoea;
• severe renal impairment, being unable to pass urine;
• eye irritation.

If you experience any of these signs, go to A&E promptly.