Povidone-iodine (PVPI) is a water-soluble complex of iodine with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), with from 9.0% to 12.0% available iodine, calculated on a dry basis[1].
PVPI can be further formulated into topical antiseptic products as a solution (with surfactants and/or alcohol), aerosol or ointment at concentrations from 7.5% to 10%. These products are sold over-the-counter (OTC) and used in hospitals for cleansing and disinfecting the skin, preparing the skin preoperatively and treating infections susceptible to iodine.
It works through disruption of pathogen cell walls.
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