Betadine – action and indications for use. How much does Betadine ointment cost?

Proven content

Betadine is the antiseptic ointment most commonly used to treat burns, but it is not the only way to use it. We check what it contains and how the Betadine ointment works, as well as its price.

Betadine – how does it work?

Betadine ointment contains the active ingredient povidone iodized, which is a combination of iodine and polyvinylpyrrolidone polymer. It is from it that, after the application of the preparation on the skin, iodine is released, which has, above all, bactericidal and virucidal properties. It also works against some protozoa.

1. Meet the plant that has bactericidal properties

Betadine – the composition of the drug

In addition to the active substance – iodinated povidone – Betadine contains auxiliary substances, which include:

1. sodium bicarbonate, 
2. macrogol 400, 
3. macrogol 4000, 
4. macrogol 1000, 
5. macrogol 1500, 
6. Purified Water. 

Betadine – indications for use

The main indication for the use of Betadine ointment is the topical treatment of wounds and burns. In addition, the agent is used to accelerate the healing of trophic ulcers, as well as skin infections.

Betadine – how to apply the ointment?

Betadine ointment should be used only as directed by doctors or the information provided on the medicine leaflet. In case of skin infections, clean the wound before applying the ointment. You can put on a dressing or bandage. The preparation should be used for a maximum of 14 days.

What if I use a higher dose of Betadine ointment?

If you use a higher dose of Betadine ointment, consult your doctor as the absorption of iodine may lead to the development of goiter. In addition, the use of ointments on extensive wounds may be a direct cause indicating symptoms of iodine poisoning.

Betadine – is it possible to overdose?

There is a possibility of iodine overdose, which is associated with a severe body reaction, the main symptoms of which are:

1. A metallic taste in the mouth 
2. Salivation, 
3. Burning sensation in the throat or mouth 
4. Indigestion, 
5. Diarrhea, 
6. Kidney failure combined with anuria, 
7. Circulatory failure, 
8. Irritation and swelling of the eyelids, 
9. Swelling of the glottis 
10. Pulmonary oedema, 
11. Metabolic acidosis. 

In the event of the above symptoms, symptomatic treatment should be applied, including restoration of electrolyte balance, as well as the work of the thyroid and kidneys, which has been disturbed.

1. What is the role of electrolytes in the body?

Betadine – contraindications to use

The main contraindication to the use of Betadine ointment is hypersensitivity to any active or excipient substance of the drug. In addition, the preparation cannot be used by people with:

1. Hyperthyroidism, 
2. Diseases of the thyroid gland (with colloidal nodular goiter, endemic goiter, as well as Hashimoto’s disease), 
3. Duhring’s herpetic dermatitis, 
4. People who are before or after treatment with radioactive iodine or scintigraphy. 

Betadine – precautionary measures

People with renal insufficiency and thyroid diseases should observe precautionary measures during the treatment with Betadine ointment. They should not take the drug for an extended period of time.

Patients with shield insufficiency who have lubricated large areas of the skin for a long time should perform a thyroid test after completing the treatment. People who are on lithium therapy should not use Betadine. Before using the preparation, the ointment should not be heated.

Betadine – side effects

The most frequently mentioned side effects occurring during Betadine treatment are skin reactions:

1. Skin reactions (itching, small blisters, red skin), 
2. Anaphylactic reaction, 
3. Overactive thyroid gland 
4. Angioedema, 
5. Kidney problems. 

Betadine – interactions with other drugs

Before starting treatment with Betadine ointment, tell your doctor about all the preparations you are taking, because Betadine may interact with some of them. They mainly include:

1. Medicines containing mercury, hydrogen peroxide, benzoic acid, taurolidine, 
2. The effectiveness of the use of Betadine may be reduced if you use enzyme ointments at the same time. 
3. If we take Betadine and other antiseptic drugs simultaneously on the skin, discoloration may appear. 

Betadine – can it be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

The use of Betadine ointment during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be consulted with a gynecologist, because iodized povidone crosses the placental barrier. There may be more of this compound in breast milk than in blood, which can lead to temporary hyperthyroidism in mother and baby. For this reason, the TSH test should be performed not only of the woman, but also of the newborn.

Betadine – how to store the drug?

Betadine should be kept out of the reach and sight of children. Preferably in a room with a maximum of 25 degrees. After the expiry date, the drug must not be used.

Betadine – price and availability

Betadine is available from a pharmacy without a prescription. You can buy it in-store or via the website. The ointment costs about PLN 15.

Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.Do you need a medical consultation or an e-prescription? Go to halodoctor.pl, where you will get online help – quickly, safely and without leaving your home.