Pyodine 10% Solution

Povidone iodine is an antiseptic that kills many kinds of germs, including bacteria, viruses and fungi. It is used:

• as first aid to help prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes and burns
• to clean and prepare the skin before and after surgery

Special eye preparations of povidone iodine are used only by eye specialists before eye surgery.

Use it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, or as directed on the pack.

• For use on the skin only. Do not use it inside the body or in the eyes (unless it is a product made for the eye and used by a specialist).
• Clean the area first, then apply a small amount to the affected skin. You can cover it with a clean dressing once it has dried.
• Do not use it as a first-aid antiseptic for more than 1 week unless a doctor tells you to.
• Do not use it over large areas of the body.
• It can stain, and may permanently discolour white gold jewellery, so remove jewellery first.

Side effects are uncommon. Some people get skin irritation, redness, itching or, rarely, burns on the skin.

Using large amounts or using it for a long time can occasionally affect the thyroid gland, and rarely the kidneys or the acid balance of the blood.

Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you have:

• a rash with swelling or difficulty breathing (an allergic reaction)
• shortness of breath, confusion or unusual tiredness
• difficulty passing urine, thirst, dry mouth or pain in one side of your back

Do not use it if you are allergic to iodine or povidone iodine. Some products should not be used if you have or have had a thyroid problem, or if you take lithium.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:

• have a deep or puncture wound, an animal bite or a serious burn
• have broken skin over a large area, such as a burn
• have kidney problems or a thyroid condition
• are due a thyroid, stool or urine test, as it may affect the results
• want to use it on a baby or young child (some products must not be used under 2 years)

Store below 25°C in the original package to protect from light, and keep out of the sight and reach of children. Alcohol-based solutions are flammable: keep away from flames and heat.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Swallowing: if any is swallowed, get medical help straight away and take the bottle with you.

See a doctor if redness or irritation develops or the problem lasts more than 72 hours.