Povimed
Generic Name
Povidone-Iodine
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| povimed 6 w cream | ৳ 50.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Povimed 6% w/w Cream contains Povidone-Iodine, an antiseptic agent used to prevent and treat skin infections in minor cuts, wounds, burns, and abrasions. It works by releasing iodine, which kills a wide range of harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Apply a small amount of cream to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily. Cover with a sterile dressing if necessary.
Elderly
No special dosage adjustment is required for the elderly. Use as for adults.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment needed for topical application, but caution is advised with prolonged use over large areas in patients with renal impairment due to potential systemic iodine absorption.
How to Take
For external use only. Clean the affected area thoroughly before applying the cream. Apply a thin layer evenly. Wash hands before and after use.
Mechanism of Action
Povidone-Iodine acts as a broad-spectrum microbicide. It works by gradually releasing free iodine upon contact with skin and mucous membranes. The free iodine rapidly penetrates microbial cell walls and membranes, disrupting protein and nucleic acid structure, thereby denaturing and inactivating essential microbial enzymes and proteins, leading to cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid onset of action, typically within 15-30 seconds for microbicidal effect.
Excretion
Absorbed iodine is primarily excreted renally.
Half life
Not directly applicable for topical application; systemically absorbed iodine has a short half-life.
Absorption
Systemic absorption of iodine from topical Povidone-Iodine is generally minimal but can occur through damaged skin or prolonged use over large areas. Absorbed iodine is rapidly cleared by the kidneys. Some absorption of the povidone component may also occur.
Metabolism
Minimal systemic metabolism. Any absorbed iodine is metabolized similar to endogenous iodine.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Povidone-Iodine or any component of the cream
- Thyroid disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism, goiter), especially in neonates and infants, due to potential iodine absorption
- Known iodine allergy
- Prior to and after radioiodine therapy
- Use in pregnant or lactating women without medical advice, especially with prolonged or extensive use
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Concurrent use of Povidone-Iodine with lithium therapy, especially with large amounts over large areas, may cause additive hypothyroid effects.
Other topical antiseptics (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, silver sulfadiazine)
May reduce the efficacy of Povidone-Iodine or cause irritation. Avoid concomitant use.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Systemic overdose from topical application is rare but can occur with extensive use over large areas, especially on compromised skin. Symptoms may include thyroid dysfunction (hypo- or hyperthyroidism), metabolic acidosis, and renal impairment. In case of suspected overdose, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy or lactation. Prolonged or extensive use should be avoided due to potential systemic iodine absorption, which may affect fetal/infant thyroid function. Short-term, localized use is generally considered low risk but physician consultation is recommended.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Povidone-Iodine or any component of the cream
- Thyroid disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism, goiter), especially in neonates and infants, due to potential iodine absorption
- Known iodine allergy
- Prior to and after radioiodine therapy
- Use in pregnant or lactating women without medical advice, especially with prolonged or extensive use
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Concurrent use of Povidone-Iodine with lithium therapy, especially with large amounts over large areas, may cause additive hypothyroid effects.
Other topical antiseptics (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, silver sulfadiazine)
May reduce the efficacy of Povidone-Iodine or cause irritation. Avoid concomitant use.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Systemic overdose from topical application is rare but can occur with extensive use over large areas, especially on compromised skin. Symptoms may include thyroid dysfunction (hypo- or hyperthyroidism), metabolic acidosis, and renal impairment. In case of suspected overdose, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy or lactation. Prolonged or extensive use should be avoided due to potential systemic iodine absorption, which may affect fetal/infant thyroid function. Short-term, localized use is generally considered low risk but physician consultation is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved for OTC use
Patent Status
Generic, patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied and widely used since the 1950s; specific brand-level clinical trials may exist for certain formulations, but the general efficacy and safety of Povidone-Iodine are well-established.
Lab Monitoring
- Thyroid function tests (TFTs) may be considered for prolonged or extensive use, especially in neonates, infants, or patients with pre-existing thyroid conditions.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on proper application technique and hygiene.
- Counsel patients about potential skin staining and how to remove it.
- Monitor thyroid function in patients with pre-existing thyroid conditions or those requiring prolonged/extensive use, especially in neonates.
- Caution against use in patients with known iodine allergy.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not swallow the cream.
- Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Discontinue use if signs of irritation or allergic reaction appear.
- Do not use for more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. Do not apply extra cream to make up for a missed dose.
Driving Precautions
No known effects on ability to drive or operate machinery for topical application.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene of the wound area.
- Keep the affected area clean and dry.
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