povidone iodine story...

How does it work?

Povidone iodine is an antiseptic. It is a complex of iodine, which kills micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and bacterial spores. It can therefore be used to treat infections with these micro-organisms.

Povidone iodine gargle and mouthwash is used to treat infections of the mouth and throat, such as gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and mouth ulcers. It is also used for oral hygiene, to kill micro-organisms before, during and after dental and oral surgery and hence prevent infections.

What is it used for?

• Infections of the lining of the mouth and throat, such as gingivitis and mouth ulcers
• Oral hygiene before, during and after dental and oral surgery

Warning!

• If symptoms persist for more than 14 days, seek medical or dental advice.
• This medicine should be used to gargle or rinse the mouth for up to 30 seconds. It should not be swallowed.
• Regular use of this medicine should be avoided, particularly in people with thyroid disorders (see below), as prolonged use may lead to iodine being absorbed into the body. Do not use for more than 14 days.

Not to be used in

• Allergy to iodine
• Children under six years of age
• 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 should not be used regularly when pregnant or breastfeeding. The use of this medicine should be limited to a single treatment session only. 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.

• Irritation of the lining of the mouth and throat
• Side effects within the body if excessive amounts of iodine are absorbed

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?

People taking lithium therapy should avoid regular use of this medicine.

If iodine is absorbed into the body from this medicine it may interfere with thyroid function tests.

(this note is taken from: http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100002965.html )