Efodine

There are many brands and forms of povidone iodine topical available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Efodine is used on the skin to treat or prevent skin infection in minor cuts, scrapes, or burns. Efodine is also used in a medical setting to help prevent infection and promote healing in skin wounds, pressure sores, or surgical incisions.

Some forms of povidone iodine topical are used inside the mouth to provide temporary relief of minor mouth pain or irritation, sore throat, or canker sore pain.

Efodine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Efodine comes in different forms, like liquid, ointment, aerosol powder, cream, spray, swab, and soap. Read and follow any Instructions for Use that come with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Always follow the directions on the medicine label when using this medicine on a child. Some forms of povidone iodine topical should not be used in children of certain ages.

Efodine is usually applied to the skin as needed. First, clean the area that needs treatment.

Shake Efodine spray well just before each use.

Allow the medicine to dry completely on the skin before putting on a bandage. Do not apply a tight bandage.

Do not use this medicine on deep wounds, puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns. Do not apply over large skin areas.

When treating an infection, you may be prescribed antibiotic medication to take by mouth. Use all medicines for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve.

Efodine used in the mouth may be used up to 4 times per day. How often you can use this medicine depends on the form you use. Follow all directions on the medicine label.

Do not use Efodine in the mouth if you are using a form that is made for use only on the skin.

To use Efodine spray in the mouth, spray directly into the mouth or throat. Leave the medicine in place for 15 seconds, then spit it out. Avoid swallowing the spray. Use once every 2 hours as needed.

To use Efodine as a mouth rinse, gargle or swish the liquid for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Do not swallow the liquid. Use up to 4 times per day.

You should not use Efodine for longer than 7 days without medical advice.

Call your doctor if your sore throat is severe or lasts more than 2 days, or if you also have a high fever, headache, nausea, or vomiting.

If you are using Efodine on your skin, seek medical advice if you have new or worsening symptoms of pain, redness, swelling, rash, or fever.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

Each Efodine swab is for one use only.

Efodine can stain skin, teeth, and fabric. You may use rubbing alcohol to remove stains from your skin. Avoid getting alcohol on a wound or irritated skin. Stains on fabric can be removed by rinsing with ammonia mixed with water. Avoid getting the medicine on jewelry, especially silver.

Efodine spray is flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Do not smoke until the gel has completely dried on your skin.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as your doctor prescribed.

You should not use Efodine if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Efodine is safe to use if you have any medical conditions or allergies.

Do not use this medicine on a young child without medical advice.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are breastfeeding, avoid applying this medicine to breast areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

This medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor right away if you have:

• swelling, pain, warmth, redness, oozing, or other signs of infection;
• blistering or crusting; or
• severe irritation, itching, or burning.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses at the same time.

An overdose of Efodine is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if someone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

Symptoms of overdose from swallowing Efodine may include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, extreme thirst, or being unable to urinate.

Do not get Efodine in your eyes. If it does get in your eyes, rinse with water. Seek medical advice if you have ongoing eye irritation.

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. However, many drugs can interact with each other. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you are using, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.