Povidone iodine
[CAS# 25655-41-8]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Synthetic anti-infective drugs >> Disinfectant antiseptic
• Name: Povidone iodine
• Synonyms: Povidone iodine USP24; Betadine; Isodine; Ultradine; 1-Vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone polymers iodine complex; PVP-I
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₉I₂NO
• Molecular Weight: 364.95
• CAS Registry Number: 25655-41-8
• EC Number: 607-771-8
• SMILES: C=CN1CCCC1=O.II

Properties

• Solubility: 100 mg/mL (water)
• Melting point: 300 ºC
• Flash Point: >100 ºC

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS09 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H315-H318-H411
• Precautionary Statements: P264-P273-P280-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P332+P313

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H331
Gases under pressure (compressed)	Press. Gas (Comp.)		H280
Flammable gases	Flam. Gas	2	H221

Discovory and Applicatios

Povidone iodine, also known as iodine polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP-I), is a chemical compound that combines iodine with the polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). It is a widely used antiseptic in both medical and industrial applications due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. The compound was first developed in the late 1940s and has since become one of the most commonly used antiseptics worldwide.

The discovery of povidone iodine can be attributed to the work of scientists at the pharmaceutical company, A.H. Robins, in the 1950s. The compound was developed as an alternative to tincture of iodine, which, though effective, could be irritating to the skin and tissues due to its alcohol content. The goal was to create a more stable and less irritating form of iodine that would still possess strong antimicrobial properties. By combining iodine with the water-soluble polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone, the resulting compound was both effective and gentler on the skin, making it suitable for a variety of medical applications.

Povidone iodine works by releasing free iodine when it comes into contact with tissue, which in turn disrupts the proteins and enzymes of microorganisms, ultimately leading to their destruction. The compound has broad-spectrum activity, making it effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. This makes it particularly valuable in preventing infections in wounds and surgical sites.

In medicine, povidone iodine is most commonly used as a topical antiseptic. It is applied to the skin to prevent infection in minor cuts, abrasions, burns, and surgical wounds. It is also used to cleanse the skin before surgery to reduce the risk of postoperative infections. Povidone iodine is available in various forms, including solutions, ointments, creams, and swabs. It is often used to clean the skin prior to the insertion of medical devices, such as catheters or intravenous lines, to prevent the introduction of harmful microorganisms.

In addition to its use in wound care, povidone iodine is also employed in the treatment of various infections. It is used to treat infections of the skin, mucous membranes, and the eyes. Povidone iodine eye drops are commonly used to treat conjunctivitis and other eye infections. The compound is also included in certain mouthwashes and gargles to help reduce the risk of infections in the mouth and throat.

Povidone iodine is also used in industrial applications, such as in the disinfection of surfaces in healthcare settings, food production facilities, and laboratories. It is valued for its effectiveness in sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces where there is a risk of contamination from bacteria or viruses.

One of the advantages of povidone iodine over traditional iodine tinctures is its relatively low toxicity and reduced irritation to the skin. While iodine tincture can cause skin burns and irritation when applied in high concentrations, povidone iodine is much gentler on the skin, even with prolonged use. This has made it a preferred antiseptic in clinical settings, where frequent and repeated applications are often necessary.

However, despite its broad range of uses, povidone iodine does have some limitations. For example, it can cause staining of the skin and clothing due to its iodine content. In addition, prolonged or excessive use of povidone iodine may lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is also important to note that povidone iodine should be used with caution in individuals who are allergic to iodine or have thyroid conditions, as excessive iodine absorption can affect thyroid function.

In conclusion, povidone iodine is an essential antiseptic with a wide range of applications in medicine and industry. Its discovery provided a more effective and less irritating alternative to traditional iodine tinctures, and its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties have made it a cornerstone in infection prevention and treatment. Whether in the treatment of wounds, preparation for surgery, or disinfection of surfaces, povidone iodine continues to be an indispensable tool in healthcare and beyond.

References

2019. Povidone-iodine-functionalized fluorinated copolymers with dual-functional antibacterial and antifouling activities. Biomater. Sci., 7(8).
DOI: 10.1039/C9BM00507A

2022. Povidone-iodine enhanced underwater tape. J. Mater. Chem. B, 10(48).
DOI: 10.1039/D2TB02137A

2015. Bactericidal magnetic nanoparticles with iodine loaded on surface grafted poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone). J. Mater. Chem. B, 3(5).
DOI: 10.1039/C4TB01537A