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Home > Drug Category > Antiseptic > Betadine and Equivalent

Betadine Information

Betadine (Povidone Iodine) is an essential first-aid medicine used for preventing infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It is also used to treat skin infections. It is also used to prepare and disinfect the skin and mucous membranes before surgery in a bid to prevent surgical infections. Its throat spray variant is also used for temporary relief of an occasional sore throat due to a throat infection. The active ingredient povidone-iodine is a chemical complex of polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone) and iodine, and it belongs to the class of antiseptic agents called iodophors. The povidone acts as a carrier, slowly releasing the free iodine onto the skin. This iodine then swiftly penetrates the cell walls of various microorganisms (like bacteria, viruses, and fungi) and destroys them by disrupting key cellular components like proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. This broad-spectrum action helps prevent pathogens from colonizing an open injury, which could lead to wound infection and other complications. The rapid and comprehensive kill rate of povidone-iodine is what makes it such a reliable first-aid choice for infection control.

Betadine Side Effects

Some less serious side effects of this Betadine include red or inflamed skin, peeling skin, dry skin, and skin discoloration. Contact your doctor if these common side effects persist or worsen.

Stop using this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Electrolyte imbalance;
• Hyperthyroidism with symptoms of palpitation, heat intolerance, and weight loss;
• Kidney failure with symptoms like difficulty in urinating, thirst, and a dry mouth;
• Severe skin reactions, including skin burns and severe skin inflammation

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Betadine Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to povidone iodine or any other ingredients in Betadine. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Kidney disease;
• Thyroid disorders

Avoid inhalation of the topical variant and avoid contact with your eyes. If you have thyroid cancer, stop using this medication for 4 weeks before treatment for cancer of the thyroid. Do not use this topical medicine on extensive burn areas. Ask your doctor before using povidone iodine in cases of deep or puncture wounds, severe burns, or animal bites. Also, consult your doctor before using this topical medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Do not use this medication in children below 2 years of age. Some drugs, like lithium and mercury-containing treatments, may interfere with povidone iodine and affect how it works. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including other topical medications, that you are taking before using Betadine to prevent potential drug interactions.

This medication is available as a spray and solution for use on the skin and nails. It is also available in the form of throat sprays for sore throat relief. Check out the leaflet in the medication pack for usage instructions. Do not use the solution and spray for more than 1 week or the throat spray for more than 2 days without consulting your doctor. Store this topical medicine at room temperature and keep it away from children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Betadine?

No, a prescription is not required from your physician to order Betadine.