Dr. Ajay Kumar. MBBS, MD , Psychiatry, General Physician, Infectious Disease, Sexology, Internal Medicine, Venereology, Diabetology

Heal Fast is a brand name for a complex containing elemental iodine and polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone, PVP). It is extensively used as an antiseptic and a disinfectant. It is usually used in the solution form.

Dr. Bharat MBBS , General Physician

No, Heal Fast should not be used for the treatment of vaginitis in pregnant women. This is because exposure to iodine-containing solution could lead to the development of hypothyroidism and goiter in the infant. Vaginitis is the swelling of the vulva or vagina. It may develop from the use of soap, perfumes, not washing well, menopause, wearing tight undergarments, etc. It can stem from a bacterial, yeast, fungal or a protozoan infection. It can be effectively managed by washing the infected area with only water, keeping it dry, taking a warm bath, wearing comfortable undergarments, keeping the blood sugar levels under control and using pads and not tampons. It is also important to use an antiseptic as per the recommendations of a doctor.

Dr. Piyush Malav MBBS, MS , General Surgery

Yes, rarely, a chemical burn can develop from Heal Fast. It develops when during a surgical procedure, Heal Fast is used, however, it doesn't dry and starts dripping, and collects in a body part. Symptoms may develop instantly or after a day. It develops because iodine causes irritation, maceration, pressure and then friction. Healing might not require much medical intervention but it causes discomfort, might prolong the hospital stay and expose a person to an infection. 

Dr. Saikat Mukherjee MBBS , General Physician

Heal Fast is also known as an iodophor, meaning that povidone is a carrier of iodine. Iodine kills the microbes as it acts as the active molecule. Once released from the complex, the free iodine penetrates into the cell walls of the microorganisms and inhibits the synthesis and structures of proteins and nucleic acids. Even though the complete mechanism is not understood, it is hypothesized that iodine disrupts the vital bacterial structures and mechanisms, denaturing and deactivating the bacteria. In-vitro studies have also suggested that iodine decreases the inflammation caused by the pathogens and host cells.

Dr. Vinod Verma MBBS , Diabetology

Yes, Heal Fast is used for open wounds since last few decades. It remains a favorite agent for use as an antiseptic and as a wound-healing agent because of its safety, tolerability, and efficacy. Heal Fast has a broad spectrum of activity, has reduced cell toxicity, low incidence of resistance has anti-inflammatory property, and is able to penetrate biofilms (cluster of microorganisms attached to the cell surface).