Iodine is an antiseptic used to prevent and treat skin infections in minor wounds, cuts and scrapes.
Apply Iodine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not apply more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a tincture, topical solution, and paste-, ointment-, or powder- containing pads.
If you have been given the paste-, ointment- or powder-containing pads, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Remove the backing and apply the pads on the wounds. (Check with your doctor if the product that you are using is intended for dry or wet wound).
- Firmly press the pad onto the skin with your palm to ensure it sticks well onto the skin.
- Wash your hands after using.
If you are using the tincture or topical solution, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Clean and dry affected area before application.
- Apply the medicine gently on the skin using a cotton. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the affected area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands again after using.
- Replace the cap of the bottle.
Avoid contact of Iodine with your eyes. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have problem with your eyes.
Do not use with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.
You may stop applying this medicine once your wound is healed.
Apply Iodine as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
Do not use more than what is instructed by the doctor to make up for the missed dose.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not apply Iodine and alert your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction (breathlessness, rashes, swollen eyes) to this medicine or to any of its ingredients.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- dermatitis herpetiformis (itchy, blistering, burning skin rash in the elbows, knees, scalp, or buttocks)
- hypocomplementaemic vasculitis (a disease-causing inflammation of the blood vessels)
- nodular thyroid condition (enlarged thyroid gland) with heart disease
as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Do not use Iodine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not use this medicine to newborn infants unless instructed to do so by the doctor.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Iodine to a child.
This medicine is not recommended for long-term use.
Iodine may interfere with the results of thyroid function tests. Inform your doctor that you are using medicine before undergoing in this test.
Iodine may cause any of the following side effects: fever, skin irritation, itching, swelling, pain or burning sensation on the application site.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
DO NOT use Iodine if you are taking lithium (medicine for mood disorder).
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store below 25°C, away from the reach of children.
Keep the bottle tightly closed. Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.