Betadine

Betadine: use, indications, contraindications and side effects

Betadine (international name - Povidone-Iodine) is an antiseptic containing the active substance povidone-iodine. This drug is widely used in medicine for the disinfection of skin and mucous membranes before operations, aseptic treatment of wounds, as well as for the treatment of bacterial and fungal skin infections.

Betadine is produced by several companies, including Alkaloid (Macedonia), Mundipharma GmbH (Switzerland and Germany), Egis Pharmaceutical Works SA (Hungary) and Egis Pharmaceutical Plant (Hungary). It is available in various dosage forms, including 7.5% and 10% solution, ointment, 200 mg vaginal suppositories, liquid soap, vaginal suppositories and 10% topical solution.

However, the use of Betadine has a number of contraindications. For example, it is not recommended for people with hypersensitivity to the drug, hyperthyroidism, or Dühring's dermatitis herpetiformis. It is also not recommended to use Betadine during pregnancy and breastfeeding (if use is necessary, it should be carried out under individual medical supervision).

Side effects from the use of Betadine include irritation of the skin or mucous membranes at the site of application. In addition, Betadine is incompatible with disinfectants containing mercury, enzyme ointments, acidic substances and alkali salts.

Despite all the contraindications and side effects listed above, Betadine remains an important drug for the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections of the skin and mucous membranes. However, before using it, you should definitely consult your doctor.