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Iodine
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Iodine

Class: Local Anti-infectives, Miscellaneous
ATC Class: D08AG03
VA Class: DX101
CAS Number: 7553-56-2
Brands: Iodoflex, Iodosorb

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 22, 2021. Written by ASHP.

Introduction

Nonmetallic element; a topical anti-infective agent.

Uses for Iodine

Antisepsis

Prevention of infection in the management of minor, superficial skin wounds, wet wounds, and wet ulcers; reduces microbial load in wound environment.

Cadexomer iodine pad and gel used in the cleansing of wet ulcers and wounds (e.g., venous stasis ulcers, pressure sores, and infected traumatic and surgical wounds). Not effective in cleaning dry wounds.

Has been used to disinfect the skin preoperatively.

Wound Healing

Cadexomer iodine pad and gel used to slow the formation of eschar; keeps lesions soft and pliable.

Iodine Dosage and Administration

Administration

Topical Administration

Apply topically to affected areas as a solution containing iodine 2%, a tincture containing iodine 2% with alcohol 47%, or as a cadexomer iodine 0.9% pad or gel.

To avoid irritation, iodine solution or tincture-treated wounds should not be covered tightly with occlusive dressings. (See Dermatologic Effects under Cautions.)

For external use only; do not use in eyes or mouth.

For self-medication, do not apply over large areas of body. Consult a doctor for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.

Cadexomer Iodine Pad

Prior to topical application, cleanse wound and surrounding area with sterile water or saline. Gently blot wound surface to remove excess fluid; wound surface should be slightly moist.

While wearing gloves, remove gauze from one or both sides of the pad and then place pad on wound surface. Cover with dry sterile dressing (e.g., gauze); apply compression bandage if appropriate (i.e., for venous stasis ulcers).

Remove pad from wound site with sterile water or saline; if necessary, ...