Introduction
Providone, also known as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or polyvidone, is a synthetic water-soluble polymer made from the monomer N-vinylpyrrolidone that is used as a binder in many pharmaceutical tablets and lubricant in eye drops. It is also used in many technical applications with various roles as an adhesive, additive, and emulsifier. When in complex with iodine, Povidone-iodine displays antiseptic properties where the iodine, a bactericidal component, mainly contributes to this effect and povidone acts as a carrier . Povidone-iodine can be found in over-the-counter topical solutions, ointment, pessaries, liquid soaps and surgical scrubs. The clinical effectiveness of Povidone-iodine on wound healing remains somewhat controversial, as it was demonstrated in few clinical studies that application of the compound in wounds was associated with impaired wound healing, reduced wound strength, or infection in open wounds .
Uses
When in complex with iodine, indicated for inducing antisepsis for prevention of infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Associated Conditions
Pharmacodynamics
Povidone itself has no microbicidal activity. Povidone-iodine exhibits rapid, potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties . The clinical effectiveness of povidon-iodine on wound healing remains somewhat controversial; in few clinical studies investigating the effects of povidone-iodine on wound healing, topical administration of the complex was associated with no significant infections, but slower healing and mild to moderate discomfort on application .
Mechanism of Action
Povidone-iodine is a water-soluble complex that mediates a bactericidal or virucidal action following the gradual liberation of free iodine from the complex at the application site to react with the pathogen . Please refer to the drug entry for Povidone-iodine for the full mechanism of action of the complex.
Absorption
This pharmacokinetic data does not apply to povidone.
Volume of Distribution
This pharmacokinetic data does not apply to povidone.
Protein Binding
This pharmacokinetic data does not apply to povidone.
Route of Elimination
This pharmacokinetic data does not apply to povidone.
Half Life
This pharmacokinetic data does not apply to povidone.
Clearance
This pharmacokinetic data does not apply to povidone.
Toxicity
Oral LD50 in mouse, rat, and rabbit are >40 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 1040 mg/kg, respectively . No cases of overdose in humans have been reported.
Food Interactions
No interactions found.
Dosage
- For the treatment of infection: Apply once or twice daily or at dressing changes for a maximum of 14 days.
- For the prevention of infection: Apply once or twice a week for as long as necessary. The affected skin should be cleaned and dried and can be covered with a dressing or bandage.
Gargle & Mouthwash: Adults and children over 6 years of age: Use undiluted or diluted with an equal volume of warm water. Gargle or rinse with up to 10 mL for up to 30 seconds without swallowing. Repeat up to four times daily, for up to 14 consecutive days, or as advised by the Registered Dental Surgeon/Physician.
Surgical Scrub:
- For Preoperative and Postoperative washing by Operating Personnel: Wet hands and forearms with water. Pour about 5 mL of Povidone Iodine Surgical Scrub on the palm of the hand and spread over both hands and forearms. Without adding more water, rub the Scrub thoroughly over all areas for about five minutes. Use a brush if desired. Clean thoroughly under fingernails. Add a little water and develop copious suds. Rinse thoroughly under running water. Complete the wash by scrubbing with another 5 mL of Povidone Iodine Surgical Scrub in the same way.
- For Preoperative use on Patients: After the skin area is shaved, wet it with water. Apply Povidone Iodine Surgical Scrub (1 mL is sufficient to cover an area of 20-30 square inches), develop lather and scrub thoroughly for about five minutes. Rinse off by aid of sterile gauze saturated with water.
- For use in the Physician's Office: Use for washing whenever a germicidal soap is required.
Ophthalmic Solution: 1 drop 4 times daily or as required, depending upon the severity of the disease, to be instilled into the conjunctival sac.
