Iodophor antiseptic
Povidone-iodine
Brand names: Betadine, Videne
Adult dose
Dose: Apply 4–10% solution/scrub topically; mouthwash 1% diluted
Route: Topical
Frequency: per indication
Clinical pearls
- Pre-operative skin antisepsis (alternative to chlorhexidine if allergy)
- Avoid prolonged use over large/broken skin
Contraindications
- Iodine hypersensitivity
- Thyroid disorders (caution)
- Neonates
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding (large areas)
Side effects
- Skin irritation
- Iodine absorption (large areas — thyroid effects)
- Hypersensitivity
Interactions
- Lithium (avoid)
- Mercury preparations
- Octenidine (compatibility)
Monitoring
- TFTs if prolonged
Reference: BNF; WHO surgical site infection guidelines; https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/povidone-iodine/. Verify against your local formulary and the latest BNF before prescribing.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Pathways
- Suspicious Pigmented Lesion — Melanoma Pathway · NICE NG14 2015 / BAD
- Cellulitis and Erysipelas · NICE NG141 2019 / CREST
- Psoriasis — Severity Assessment and Step-Up Therapy · NICE NG153 2019 / BAD
- Atopic Eczema — Assessment and Step-Up Therapy · NICE NG95 2023
- Urticaria and Angioedema · BSACI / EAACI Guidelines 2022
- Acne Vulgaris — Grading and Treatment · NICE NG198 2021 / BAD