How does it work?
Povidone iodine belongs to a class of antiseptics known as iodophores. These chemicals exert their antiseptic effect by slowly releasing iodine. Antiseptics (sometimes called germicides) are chemicals that kill or prevent the growth of micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and bacterial spores. Povidone iodine ointment is used for the treatment or prevention of infection in minor cuts and abrasions, minor surgical procedures and small areas of burns. It is also used for the treatment of fungal and bacterial skin infections and pyodermas and in the treatment of infections in decubitus and stasis ulcers (bedsores and leg ulcers). In the presence of blood, serum, purulent exudate and necrotic (dead) tissue, its action persists while the colour remains.

What is it used for?
Infected wounds or ulcers Treatment or prevention of infection in minor cuts and abrasions, minor surgical procedures and small areas of burns. Treatment of fungal and bacterial skin infections and pyodermas. Warning! Thyroid function tests should be performed during prolonged use. Use with caution in Decreased kidney function Not to be used in Allergy to iodine Children under 2 years of age Regular use should be avoided when taking lithium. This medicine should not be used regularly by pregnant or breast-feeding women. Thyroid disorders such as nodular colloidal goitre, endemic goitre or Hashimoto's thyroiditis (do not use regularly in these conditions) This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine. This medicine is not recommended for use by pregnant women. Seek medical advice from your doctor. This medicine should only be used where the advantages to the mother outweigh the potential risks to the nursing infant. Seek medical advice from your doctor. Side effects Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect. Decreased kidney function High blood sodium level (hypernatraemia) Skin reactions such as rash and itch Increased acid levels in the blood (metabolic acidosis) The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?
Absorption of iodine from povidone iodine may interfere with thyroid function tests. Contamination with povidone iodine, of several types of test for the detection of occult blood in faeces or blood in urine may produce false positive results. Read more: http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/skin-and-hair/medicines/betadine-ointment.html#ixzz2gAolH5IK Follow us: @NetDoctor on Twitter | NetDoctorUK on Facebook