Iodine has been used to treat wound infections for more than 150 years. In fact, the work of Ignaz Semmelweis in the mid-1800s to promote handwashing with chlorinated lime solutions is considered a turning point in the history of antiseptic practices. Still, it wasn’t until the 1950s that povidone-iodine (PVP-I) was introduced.
What is povidone-iodine?
PVP-I is a stable chemical complex of polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone) and elemental iodine, and it’s water-soluble.
PVP-I is used as a topical antiseptic. It’s effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. It works by releasing free iodine, which disrupts the microbes’ proteins and nucleic acids.
PVP-I is effective against even resistant microorganisms, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
This article will cover the uses of PVP-I in:
- hand disinfection
- skin preparation
- wound irrigation
We’ll also compare PVP-I to other antiseptics and discuss some practical considerations when using it.
Choosing the right antiseptic, like gentian violet, for a given situation can be complex, and it will depend on the specific context.