Tincture of iodine is a strong topical antiseptic.
Tincture of iodine is a solution of elemental iodine dissolved in ethanol (grain alcohol), or a more stable mixture of iodine and sodium iodide dissolved in a 50-50 solution of ethanol and water. Iodine itself is a non-metallic element, with the chemical symbol "I", atomic number 53 and atomic weight of 126.9. Iodine was first isolated in 1811 by French chemist Bernard Courtois and confirmed as a separate element in 1813. It took another 25 years for iodine's medicinal value to be discovered.
Value in Medicine
Iodine's value as a germ killer in wounds was first described in 1839, said PhlebotomyPages.com. By the late 19th century, tincture of iodine was in common use as a topical antiseptic. Iodine kills a wide range of bacteria and viruses within 5 minutes of application. It works by interfering with protein synthesis and breaking down cell walls.
Tincture's Drawbacks
Tincture of Iodine has some significant drawbacks, said PhlebotomyPages. It has a strong, irritating smell and stains skin and clothing. It also is unstable and reacts harshly with metals. It can irritate the skin in some patients, particularly those with puncture wounds, and can dangerously inflame mucous membranes.
New Formulation
Tincture of iodine has largely been replaced by povidone iodine solutions such as Aerodine or Betadine. According to the Medical-Dictionary.com, elemental iodine does not dissolve well in water but when mixed with a suspension agent such as povidone (polymerized vinylpyrolidone) it mixes quite well. PhlebotomyPages said povidone iodine is much safer to use on patients but is just as effective in killing germs.
Allergy Danger
All iodine solutions pose a danger to persons allergic to fish, shellfish and other seafood. All seafood contains iodine, said PhlebotomyPages, and persons allergic to seafood also are likely to be allergic to iodine in any form. In cases of extreme allergic reactions, the patient could go into anaphylactic shock, which is lethal if not treated immediately with a counteragent like epinephrine.
Iodine's Other Uses
Iodine and its compounds have a host of other uses, said supplier Iodine.com. Potassium iodide is an essential trace mineral in human and animal nutrition. Iodine compounds are also used as a contrast medium for X-rays. Non-medical uses for iodine compounds include surface sanitation and cleaning compounds, water purification and swimming pool sanitation. Iodine also is an ingredient in making dyes and nylon. As silver iodide, it is the light-sensitive material in black-and-white photo film.
Tags: said PhlebotomyPages, Tincture iodine, elemental iodine, Iodine compounds, iodine solutions, persons allergic, povidone iodine