Dr. Piyush Malav MBBS, MS , General Surgery

Yes, rarely, a chemical burn can develop from Betadine Solution. It develops when during a surgical procedure, Betadine Solution 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. Kapil Sharma MBBS , General Physician

Yes, in rare instances, Betadine Solution may cause allergy. It could be manifested as a rash, an itch, a swelling around the mouth, on lips, tongue or throat, wheezing, sneezing, etc. If you develop any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately. 

Dr. Ajay Kumar MBBS, MD , General Physician

Betadine Solution 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. Saikat Mukherjee MBBS , General Physician

Betadine Solution 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. Ayush Pandey MBBS, PG Diploma , General Physician

Yes, Betadine Solution kills bacteria. It exerts its bactericidal effect by invading the cell wall of the bacteria and killing its DNA and denaturing the enzymes.