Dr. Ayush Pandey MBBS, PG Diploma , General Physician

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

Dr. Vinod Verma MBBS , Diabetology

Yes, Povine 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. Povine 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).

Dr. Bharat MBBS , General Physician

No, Povine 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. Saikat Mukherjee MBBS , General Physician

Povine 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. Kapil Sharma MBBS , General Physician

Yes, Povine is suitable for a fungal infection. Fungal infections can be managed by using a topical treatment and adhering to it, by washing the skin with slightly warm water and an antifungal soap or a wash, by keeping the skin dry, by daily washing the towel, bedsheet and the clothes, by not wearing tight clothes, etc.