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BETADINE® Health Answers

Expert answers to your most common health and hygiene questions — all in one place. Find trusted information on wound care, sore throat treatment, and feminine hygiene.

FEMININE CARE

9 Q&As
Regular soap, especially the scented soap and gels, can affect the healthy balance of bacteria and pH levels in your intimate area. 60,61,62
Flora is the term used to describe the microorganisms that live on or in our bodies. 60-62 Some flora actually has a positive effect on our health, while others can multiply to become harmful.60-62 In the vagina, the normal flora actually helps prevent infections. The normal flora that live in our vaginal area is called lactobacilli. It protects women against infections in the feminine intimate area and keeps the normal vaginal flora intact.60-62 Sometimes, the vaginal flora becomes unbalanced, making it more likely for you to feel discomfort in your intimate area.
BETADINE® Daily Feminine Wash products are specially formulated to maintain vaginal hygiene and help keep the normal vaginal flora intact. To manage vaginal cleanliness and prevent issues, it’s important to maintain the normal vaginal flora.93-94 BETADINE® Daily Feminine Wash products help soothe, care and protect your intimate area, and keep the natural balance. The Tri-Care+TM formula and prebiotics in the BETADINE® Daily Feminine Wash products provide daily protection from unwanted symptoms associated with pH imbalance in the vagina — an imbalance pH that could lead to discomfort.21,28
Povidone-Iodine as the active ingredient is used against a wide spectrum of microorganisms.2,96 The POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche do not target just one type of microorganism but also cleanse the bad germs, allowing the normal vaginal flora (good bacteria) to return.59,107
Do:
Identify the cause – suspect infection by looking out for vaginal symptoms such as discharge with abnormal colour or amount.
Check for foreign objects like tampons or condoms after intimate sessions.
Wear cotton undergarments to encourage airflow and allow your vaginal area to breathe.103-106
 
Don’t:
Use fragrant body washes and soaps as it can disrupt the pH balance of your vagina.103-106
A vaginal infection (your doctor may call it bacteria vaginitis, yeast vaginitis, trichomoniasis vaginitis) is an infection that results in minor inflammation and other symptoms in and around your vagina.103-106 It may cause redness, swelling, irritation or even pain, abnormal vaginal discharge and odour. In some cases, when left untreated, this can result in serious complications.103-106
Vaginal infections are very common – it’s estimated that 75% of women have had at least one at some point in their lives.102 They occur when infectious bacteria, viruses or fungi grow in or around the vagina.

Bacterial infections are the most common cause, accounting for up to 50% of the cases. 102 They happen when there are changes in the types and amounts of bacteria normally found in the vagina.

Fungal infections like candida albicans are probably the next most common cause. Fungal infections are often called vaginal yeast infections.


Other possible causes of vaginal irritation include:

Tight nylon underwear that doesn’t provide good ventilation, resulting in perspiration and lack of air circulation103-106
The use of contraceptives103-106
The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics for the treatment of other infections103-106
The use of vaginal deodorants103-106
The lack of personal hygiene103-10

Pregnant and lactating mothers are encouraged to avoid using the POVIDONE-IODINE BETADINE® Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche due to the potential risks to the fetus/baby. There is a possible chance that the fetus/baby may be at risk of reversible hypothyroidism. Even though hypothyroidism is reversible, it might still lead to future metabolism conditions.59,107

Women who suffer from hypothyroidism should also avoid using the
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®)  Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche.59,107

Povidone-iodine, which is the active ingredient in POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche, is naturally golden brown in colour. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair.59,107

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Feminine Wash and Vaginal Douche products can also be washed off even if they get into contact with your clothes. If you accidentally get some on natural fibers, it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibers, it can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.59,107

CAUTION: Immediately wipe up spills on plastic floors.

THROAT CARE

14 Q&As
More than 85% of sore throats are caused by viruses5,44. Bacteria are the next most common type of germs that cause sore throats5, 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.

Bacteria are single cell organisms usually found in and on our bodies27. Some bacteria are harmless – and can even be good for us – and some cause infections27.

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 throats1-3. 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


For the same reasons, other viral infections like flu should not be treated with antibiotics either6.

If a sore throat persists or is particularly severe, you should see your doctor.
Antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor in situations of bacteria related infections*.

* For further information, please check with your doctor or pharmacist.

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®Gargle kills germs that cause sore throats1,2.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:

  • Avoid sharing utensils with people who are sick.
  • Wash your hands regularly with soap.
  • Practice proper hand and throat hygiene by using an antiseptic hand wash and gargle, such as POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle to kill germs and prevent passing on germs within the family or community2.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands as germs can enter your body this way and make you sick.
  • Stay away from people who are ill, as germs can spread.88

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.


POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE® preparations do not stain the skin, fingernails, hair, or natural fibre either.3 If you accidentally get POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE® on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE® can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.

CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.

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 throats1-3, 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

When a loved one suffers from sore throat, flu or a cold, practicing proper throat and oral hygiene like gargling with POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) helps. This lessens the chances of other family members getting it too by killing the germs before they have a chance to act.

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.

If you accidentally get POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) on natural fibres it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibres, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.
 
CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.

WOUND CARE

8 Q&As
Both antiseptic and disinfectant prevent the growth of disease-causing micro-organisms .1 The main difference between the two is that disinfectants are usually used on inanimate object (e.g. tables, floors, chairs) and antiseptics are more suitable for human skin.45

Antiseptics are used as a treatment to cleanse cuts, scratches, burns, grazes or other minor injuries where the skin is broken, or as a preventive measure before piercing the skin (e.g. an injection). For this very reason, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®has a wide range of antiseptic formats for your different needs.
You should not use an antiseptic that kills all germs but causes a skin reaction or affect would healing. On the other hand, an antiseptic that is gentle on the skin on wounds but does not kill germs will not prevent infection and may even prolong the wound healing process.12
Unlike most antiseptics, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®uses a povidone-iodine solution to quickly kill the germs that cause wound infections3Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) antiseptic is relatively free of irritation or stinging, making it easier to use on your kids, in comparison with other alcohol antiseptics for wounds.11,14 Individual response varies.
The main reason for using antiseptics on wounds is to prevent and treat infections, making the healing process faster14. Infections can cause delays and prevent healing, or even worsen the wound condition.
The active ingredient in BETADINE® , Povidone-Iodine, is naturally a golden brown color. It will not stain your skin, fingernails or hair, although you can see where it’s been applied on the skin.3

If you accidentally get Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) on natural fibers it can usually be easily washed off with water and soap. For man-made fibers, Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) can usually be washed off with the help of a stain remover.

CAUTION: Immediately remove spills from plastic floors.
Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) antiseptics provide germ-killing action.

Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®Wound Care is an antiseptic, not an antibiotic. Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®Wound Care range contains povidone-iodine that acts on germs that may cause wound infection14. These germs get killed before it has an opportunity to infect the wound. When you use it, you will know it always helps.

Water only removes physical debris lodged in flesh, unlike an antiseptic like Povidone-Iodine (BETADINE®) that is used to kill surface germs and prevent infection13.

Additionally, the use of tap water to cleanse the wound would not be recommended in a country where a constant supply of potable drinking water is not available.32

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle Product Information

May 8, 2026, 19:19 PM
Title : POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Gargle Product Information
Published by :
Published date : Jun 14, 2025, 00:00 AM

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) 1% oral solution ANTISEPTIC

For symptomatic relief of sore throat

NAME OF PRODUCT

Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 1% Oral Antiseptic Solution

Read this leaflet carefully before you start using this product.

• Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
• If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
• If any of the side effects become serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRODUCT
Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 1% Oral Antiseptic Solution contains povidone-iodine which is an antiseptic that kills a wide range of germs including bacteria, viruses and fungi. Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) has not been associated with bacterial, viral or fungal resistance. It has a pleasant tasting menthol flavour.

1. WHAT IS POVIDONE IODINE (BETADINE®) ORAL ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION?
Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 1% Oral Antiseptic Solution is a broad spectrum germicidal gargle in a USP Type II Amber Bottle with Plastic Screw Cap. Its golden brown color indicates a potent iodine germ-killing power. It is mint-flavored, well tolerated and does not stain the teeth. It is available in 60 mL, 120 mL, 240 mL and 500 mL.

2. STRENGTH OF POVIDONE IODINE (BETADINE®) ORAL ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION
Each ml contains Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 10 mg equivalent to 1mg of available iodine.

3. WHAT IS POVIDONE IODINE (BETADINE®) ORAL ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION USED FOR?

Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 1% Oral Antiseptic Solution is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of conditions that cause inflammation or infection (viral, bacterial or fungal) of the mouth or throat such as sore throat (pharyngitis), tonsillitis, oral thrush, gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis, oral ulcers, common colds and flu as well as stomatitis, which is a condition where there is ulceration and inflammation of the mouth.

For oral mucositis, which is an ulceration of the mouth caused by cancer therapies such as chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.

Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 1% Oral Antiseptic Solution can be used as a protective measure to aid in infection control. It has been shown to kill viruses, bacteria and fungi that are associated with:
• Respiratory infections such as common cold, MERS, flu, pneumonia
• Hospital acquired infections, infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria
• Pre-mouth rinse prior to dental procedure to minimize risk of viral infectious disease outbreaks

Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 1% Oral Antiseptic Solution can also be used for oral hygiene, before or after oral and dental surgery such as tonsillectomy and dental procedures. It can also be used to remove plaque causing bacteria that can result in oral infections and bad breath.
Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 1% Oral Antiseptic Solution is an ideal degerming soak for dentures and toothbrushes.

4. HOW MUCH AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU USE POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) ORAL ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION?
Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) is not recommended for children below 2 years of age.
For Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) 1% Oral Antiseptic Solution, use undiluted or dilute with one part water.

Adults and children aged 6 years and above
Rinse and gargle with 10 ml up to four times a day for:
• 30 seconds for sore throat, oral hygiene, during outbreaks, before surgery and dental procedures
• 2 to 3 minutes each for ulcers, oral mucositis
Spit out after use. Do not swallow. Rinsing after use is not necessary.
For Oral Use Only.

5. WHEN SHOULD YOU NOT USE POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) ORAL ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION?
Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) oral antiseptic solution should not be used:
• If you have hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients
• If you are to receive or are currently receiving radioactive iodine treatments
• If you are using products containing mercury such as thiomersal
• If you have a thyroid problem
• In children under 1 year of age


6. SIDE EFFECTS
All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical attention if you get some of the side effects.

Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) does not affect your ability to drive or use machinery. Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) can cause side effects such as skin irritation, redness, swelling, small blisters, itching,
or dry skin, tiredness, weakness, confusion, rapid shallow breathing, passing little or no urine, fluid retention and swelling of legs, ankle and feet.
For more information about any other possible risks associated with Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) solution, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

7. WHAT OTHER MEDICINE OR FOOD SHOULD BE AVOIDED WHILE USING POVIDONE IODINE (BETADINE®)ORAL ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION?
Other antiseptics or medications can affect how POVIDONE IODINE (BETADINE®) works. 
Avoid preparations containing hydrogen peroxide, silver, taurolidine or octenidine.
Tell your doctor if you are using Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) before any diagnostic test.

8. WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU MISS A DOSE?
Follow the usage instructions mentioned in section 4. If you miss a treatment and it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and apply your next dose when you are meant to.

9. HOW SHOULD YOU KEEP POVIDONE IODINE (BETADINE®) ORAL ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION?

Use within 6 months after first opening. Do not use Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) oral antiseptic solution after the expiry date indicated on the bottle.

Store at temperatures not exceeding 30°C. 

Keep Out of Reach of Children.

10. SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF OVERDOSE
In the unlikely event you experience any of the following symptoms: stomach pain, unable to pass urine, loss of appetite, weakness, nausea and vomiting, coughing up blood, excessive sweating, difficulty in breathing, metabolic acidosis, anxiety and pale skin, abdominal symptoms, anuria, circulatory collapse, pulmonary edema and metabolic abnormalities, immediately consult your doctor.
Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

11. WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU HAVE USED MORE THAN THE RECOMMENDED DOSAGE?
Please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

12. CARE THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN WHEN USING POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) ORAL ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION
Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) oral antiseptic solution should only be used if agreed with a healthcare professional:
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have received radioactive iodine treatments within the last 4 weeks
• Children between 1 to 6 years of age

Povidone-lodine (BETADINE®) does not stain. However, if product accidentally comes in contact with your clothes, wash immediately with water.
Avoid contact with jewelry, especially silver containing articles.
Do not heat prior to application.

13. WHEN SHOULD YOU CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR?

Consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you have any of the following signs or symptoms:

• Allergic reactions that occur quickly and include an itchy raised skin rash (hives), a body rash, sudden breathing problems, feeling faint, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat-seek medical help straight away

• Symptoms of a thyroid problem may include feeling nervous, moody, difficulty sleeping, hand tremors, fast or irregular heartbeat, trouble breathing, feeling very hot or sweaty, weight loss, weight gain and tiredness.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse. Also call your doctor if your symptoms had cleared up but reappeared again.

If accidentally swallowed, contact your healthcare professional or hospital immediately.

For suspected adverse drug reaction/s with the use of this product, immediately seek medical attention and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and iNova Pharma Philippines, Inc. at drugsafety@inovapharma.com

Registration Number: DRHR-328

Date of First Authorization: 22 February 1977

Manufactured by:
INTERPHIL LABORATORIES, INC.
Canlubang Industrial Estate, Bo. Pittland, Cabuyao, Laguna

For:
iNova Pharmaceuticals (Singapore) Pte. Limited

Marketing Authorization Holder:
iNova Pharma Philippines, Inc.
Unit 1201, The Finance Centre 9th Avenue corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Metro Manila

Date of revision: 09 October 2024

®: BETADINE is a registered trademark of iNova Pharma SG Pte Ltd.

 

A11695

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  • Throat Care
1% oral solution ANTISEPTIC For symptomatic relief of sore throat Betadine gargle antiseptic solution   For symptomatic relief of sore throat Betadine gargle antiseptic solution   For symptomatic relief of sore throat 1% oral solution ANTISEPTIC For symptomatic relief of sore throat
Product Category : THROAT CARE
Product CTA : POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) GARGLE & MOUTHWASH
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