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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®) Wound Care Range Abridged Product Information

Sep 3, 2025, 16:04 PM
Title : POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Wound Care Range Abridged Product Information
Published by :
Published date : Jun 14, 2025, 00:00 AM

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) WOUND SOLUTION 10%

Regulatory Class: Non-Rx

C: Povidone-iodine

I: Treatment & prevention of infection of minor wounds (cuts & abrasions), ulcers & burns. Pre-op disinfection of skin. Hygienic hand & skin disinfection & surgical hand disinfection.

D: Minor wounds & ulcers Clean the wound area & apply undiluted once daily or bid until wound or ulcer has healed. If necessary, apply a dressing. Pre-op surgical disinfection Apply undiluted to the area & allow to dry. Hand disinfection Apply approx 3 mL undiluted onto the hands, rub into hands & around the fingers, & leave on for 1 min before washing off. Skin disinfection Apply adequate amount to the affected area & allow to dry. Surgical hand disinfection Apply approx 3 mL undiluted onto the hands, rub into hands & around the fingers, & leave on for 5 min before washing off.

CI: If you are allergic to iodine or povidone, if you have an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or any thyroid disease, if you are on lithium therapy, before and after a specific medical treatment involving the use of radioactive iodine. Not to be used in children under 1 year of age.

SP: Iodine idiosyncrasy. Avoid pooling under the patient & in skin folds during pre-op surgery to avoid skin burn.

AR: Skin irritation, discolouration, 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.

INT: Concomitant use of other externally applied wound healing medicines/preparations. Products containing enzymatic component, alkali, mercury, silver, hydrogen peroxide, tannic acid, octenidine and taurolidine.

 

 

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) DRY POWDER SPRAY 2.5%

Regulatory Class: Non-Rx

C: Povidone-iodine

I: Treatment & prevention of infection of minor wounds (cuts & abrasions), ulcers, burns & superficial lesion.

D: Spray evenly onto the wound area from a distance of 15-25 cm for 3 sec. Apply bid until wound has healed. If necessary, cover w/ a dressing.

CI: Hypersensitivity. Hyperthyroidism or any thyroid disease; before & after radioiodine therapy for hyperthyroidism. Do not use 4 wk prior to radioiodine scintigraphy or radioiodine treatment of thyroid carcinoma. Nodular colloid & endemic goiter, Hashimotos thyroiditis. Patients on lithium therapy. Before & after specific medicinal treatment involving the use of radioactive iodine. Pregnancy & lactation. Not to be used in children under 1 year of age.

SP: Spray in a well-ventilated area. Avoid inhaling or spraying into the eyes; pooling beneath the patient in pre-op prep; solns containing a detergent. False +ve results in tests w/ toluidine or gum guaiac for Hb-determination in stool or urine. Discontinue use if skin irritation, contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity occurs. Do not use if conception is desired; on extensive body areas & over a long period of time (>14 days). Do not heat prior to use. Monitor thyroid function up until 3 mth after treatment. Renal impairment.

AR: Skin irritation, discolouration, 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.

INT: May alter the effect w/ concomitant use of other externally applied wound healing drugs/prep. Products containing enzymatic component, alkali, ASA, bismuth, Hg, silver, hydrogen peroxide, tannic acid, octenidine and taurolidine. May interfere w/ tests on thyroid function.

 

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) OINTMENT 10%

Regulatory Class: Non-Rx

C: Povidone-iodine

I: Treatment of common skin infections; prevention of infection in minor burns, lacerations, cuts and abrasions; and for infection control during insertion and care of urinary catheters, circumcision, suture removal and dressing changes. POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) ointment may be used for degerming care of stasis ulcers, decubitus ulcers and the umbilical area. It can be used also for degerming during use of intravenous devices in blood transfusions, hyperalimentation, cutdowns, CVP catheterization and in other procedures where degerming is needed.

D: Clean & dry the affected skin. Apply liberally. May be covered w/ a dressing or bandage. May be used as often as required.

CI: Hypersensitivity. Hyperthyroidism or any thyroid diseases. Patients on lithium therapy. Before & after a specific medical treatment involving the use of radioactive iodine.

SP: Avoid pooling beneath the patient in pre-op prep. Prolonged exposure. Discontinue use if instances of skin irritation, contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity occurs. Do not heat prior to use. Do not use on extensive body areas. Patients w/ goiter, thyroid nodules or other non-acute thyroid diseases. Monitor thyroid function. Do not use to prior to or after radioiodines scintigraphy or radioiodine treatment of thyroid carcinoma. False +ve lab results (eg, tests w/ toluidine or gum guaiac for Hb or glucose determination in stool or urine). May interfere w/ thyroid function tests. Renal impairment. Pregnancy & lactation. Childn (newborn & small infants).

AR: Rarely, itchiness, redness, small blisters. Very rarely: acute generalized allergic reactions.

INT: May alter the effect w/ concomitant use of other externally applied wound healing drugs/prep. Products containing enzymatic component, alkali, Hg, silver, hydrogen peroxide, tannic acid & taurolidine. Transient dark discolorations in involved areas in concomitant use w/ octenidine-containing antiseptics.

 

 

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) CREAM 5%

Regulatory Class: Non-Rx

C: Povidone-iodine

I: For prevention of infection in burns, lacerations, cuts and abrasions; treatment of common skin infections, and for infection control during circumcision, suture removal and dressing changes. POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) cream may be used for degerming care of stasis ulcers, decubitus ulcers and the umbilical area and in other procedures where degerming is needed.

D: Clean and dry the affected skin. Apply cream liberally. May be covered with a dressing or bandage. POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) cream may be used as often as required. In the treatment of burns, every eight hours; in other treatments, apply once daily generally.

CI: Hypersensitivity. Hyperthyroidism or any thyroid diseases. Patients on lithium therapy. Before & after a specific medical treatment involving the use of radioactive iodine.

SP: Avoid pooling beneath the patient in pre-op prep. Prolonged exposure. Discontinue use if instances of skin irritation, contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity occurs. Do not heat prior to use. Do not use on extensive body areas. Patients w/ goiter, thyroid nodules or other non-acute thyroid diseases. Monitor thyroid function. Do not use to prior to or after radioiodines scintigraphy or radioiodine treatment of thyroid carcinoma. False +ve lab results (eg, tests w/ toluidine or gum guaiac for Hb or glucose determination in stool or urine). May interfere w/ thyroid function tests. Renal impairment. Pregnancy & lactation. Childn (newborn & small infants).

AR: Like all medicines, POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) cream can cause side effects (although not everybody gets them), such as skin irritation, redness, small blisters, itching, mostly at the site where product was applied.

INT: May alter the effect w/ concomitant use of other externally applied wound healing drugs/prep. Products containing enzymatic component, alkali, Hg, silver, hydrogen peroxide, tannic acid & taurolidine. Transient dark discolorations in involved areas in concomitant use w/ octenidine-containing antiseptics.

 

 

POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) SKIN CLEANSER 7.5%

Regulatory Class: Non-Rx

C: Povidone-iodine

I: For general hygiene & for cleansing & disinfecting the skin, infection control hand hygiene measure for skin cleansing and hand washing during viral infectious disease outbreaks such as hand, foot, and mouth disease, impetigo, MRSA, flu (influenza, avian, swine), SARS-coronavirus, colds (rhinovirus, coronavirus) & ebola, helps stop spread of infections in acne, minor cuts & wounds, helps remove offensive odor of the underarms, feet & body, helps prevent spread of fungal infections eg, tinea pedis (athletes foot or alipunga), tinea versicolor (ringworm or an-an), tinea cruris (jock itch or hadhad). As a surgical scrub; helps relieve skin itching.

D: Pour small amount on palm & dilute w/ a palmful of water. Work into a lather on skin. Rinse thoroughly w/ water. For body odor, use regularly until odor is removed. Not recommended for continuous daily use throughout the year.

CI: Sensitivity to iodine. Thyroid problem. To receive or currently receiving radioactive iodine treatments; using products containing mercury such as thiomersal; children < 1 year.

SP: Iodine idiosyncrasy. Pregnant and breast-feeding patients.

AR: Skin irritation, discolouration, 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.

INT: Products containing hydrogen peroxide, mercury, silver, taurolidine, octenidine or thiomersal.

Tags :
  • Wound Care
Betadine Wound Care Range of Products Betadine Wound Care Products - Wound Solution, Dry Powder Spray, Ointment and Cream Betadine Wound Care Products - Wound Solution, Dry Powder Spray, Ointment and Cream Betadine Wound Care Products - Wound Solution, Dry Powder Spray, Ointment and Cream
Product Category : WOUND CARE
Product CTA : POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) 10% ANTISEPTIC SOLUTION
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