More than 85% of sore throats are caused by viruses^5,44. Bacteria are the next most common type of germs that cause sore throats^{5, 43, 44}.

These viruses and bacteria can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touch an object that has the virus on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs or sneezes) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing) ⁴³.

A sore throat can be caused by different types of germs. Therefore, it is good to use a preparation that target different types and classes of germs⁸⁸.

The moment you feel an itch in your throat, it is always good to use an antiseptic gargle before the situation becomes more serious. You do not want germs to spread to your loved ones. This reduces the chances of them getting the germs before they have chance to act.

Viruses are tiny particles that rely on human or animal cells for their survival, so they cannot last very long outside the body²⁷. They cause illnesses by invading healthy cells and multiplying.

Salt-water gargle is considered a home remedy which contains salt only. But, salt water has no effect on viruses the main cause of sore throats.

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Gargle has scientific research on its germ killing activity against germs that can cause sore throats^1-3. With a 30-second gargle, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Gargle kill germs². Individual response varies*.

Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria. Because majority of sore throats are caused by a virus, antibiotics would not work for such cases. Most health authorities advise against the over-use of antibiotics so that resistance doesn’t become a big problem.⁶

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Gargle kills germs that cause sore throats^1,2.Research has also shown that the povidone-iodine (PVPI) in POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Gargle has a 30 seconds killing effect against germs through 30 sec gargling³⁴. Individual response varies.

Since most sore throats are caused by germs⁵, there are steps that you can take to prevent getting an infection:

No, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Gargle does not stain the teeth. The natural brown colour is due to Povidone-Iodine, the active ingredient of POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®)  Gargle. The product retains the germ killing effect of iodine but unlike iodine, it is generally non-staining³.

Small amount may be swallowed during gargling. If accidentally swallowed in large amounts, consult your local doctor or pharmacist immediately.

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Gargle contains povidone-iodine that kills the germs that cause sore throats^1-3, in a 30-second gargle. However, it is impossible to say how quickly you will feel better. Individual response condition varies^*.

Some cosmetic mouthwashes are meant for fresh breath while POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE^®) Gargle is a medicated formulation for treatment against throat and oral infection¹⁰.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not use unless advised by healthcare professional.

Germs that cause sore throats can be passed on via direct contact (e.g. touching something that has the germs on it), airborne transmission (e.g. when someone coughs) and close personal contact (e.g. kissing).^43,88

The active ingredient in BETADINE^®, povidone-iodine, is naturally a golden brown colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair, although you can see where it’s been applied on the skin³.