Alcohol solution of iodine: instructions and application

Why do I need an alcohol solution of iodine? We will tell about this in the article presented. Also you will learn about how this medication works, what properties it possesses, what is included in its composition and whether it has side reactions.

Form, description, composition and packaging

A solution of iodine alcohol, the instruction of which is enclosed in a cardboard box, is a liquid of dark brown color. In the sale of this drug comes in ampoules of 1 ml, as well as in bottles of dark glass.

A solution of iodine alcohol 5% contains potassium iodide in an amount of 20 g, iodine - 50 g, as well as distilled water and ethyl 96% alcohol in a ratio of 1: 1 (to a volume of 1000 ml).

pharmachologic effect

How does an alcohol solution of iodine work? Elementary iodine is able to exert a pronounced antimicrobial effect. For such a preparation (in small amounts), the local irritating effect is characteristic, as well as cauterizing properties (at higher concentrations).

Local action of iodine is due to its ability to precipitate proteinaceous tissues. The drugs that split this elementary substance contribute to a less pronounced irritant effect. As for potassium iodide, they have a local irritant effect only at high concentrations.

Features of the drug

The principle of resorptive action of potassium iodide and elemental iodine is the same. But the most pronounced effects such drugs have on the work of the thyroid gland. With a shortage of this element in the human body, iodides restore the broken synthesis of hormones (thyroid). If the content of this substance is normal, then they reduce the synthesis of thyroid hormones, and also reduce the sensitivity of the thyroid gland to the TTG of the pituitary gland and block its secretion by the pituitary gland.

The alcohol solution of iodine can have a direct effect on the metabolism, which is manifested by enhanced dissimilation processes. With a disease such as atherosclerosis, this drug causes a slight decrease in the concentration of beta-lipoproteins, as well as cholesterol in the blood. In addition, it increases the lipoproteinase and fibrinolytic activity of blood serum and slows down its coagulation rate.

After the accumulation of iodine in syphilitic gums, it contributes to their softening and complete resorption. One can not help saying that a large number of this element in tuberculosis foci contributes to the intensification of inflammatory processes in them.

Isolation of iodine preparations with excretory glands is directly related to irritation of glandular tissues and intensification of their secretion. Such properties of the medicine explain its expectorant effect, as well as stimulation of lactation (in small dosages). Although in large doses, this drug can, on the contrary, contribute to suppressing lactation.

Pharmacokinetics

How does the solution of iodine alcohol influence the human body? The use of this product (application on the skin or mucous membranes) can cause burns (with large amounts of the drug and prolonged exposure).

After applying the drug to the mucous membranes or skin, about 30% of the drug is converted to iodides, as well as to active iodine.

The alcohol solution of iodine is absorbed only partially. The absorbed part of the drug penetrates into the organs and tissues, and then is selectively absorbed by the thyroid gland. It is allocated by means of kidneys, sweat, mammary glands, and also by means of an intestine.

Indications for use of iodine preparations

What is the purpose of the solution of iodine alcohol? The use of this agent is indicated for the external treatment of infectious inflammatory skin lesions (for example, in trauma, wounds), as well as in myalgia.

With regard to the local use of the drug, it is prescribed for wounds, rhinitis atrophic, tonsillitis chronic, otitis purulent, burn infected, trophic and varicose ulcers, fresh chemical and thermal burns 1 st and 2 nd degree.

Can I take a solution of iodine alcohol? The instruction says that such use of the drug is possible, but only for the treatment of atherosclerosis and tertiary syphilis.

Contraindications for use

What patients should not be given a solution of iodine alcohol (2%, 5%, 1%)? According to experts, this drug is not allowed to use when the person is sensitive to iodine.

As for the oral administration of the drug, it is not prescribed for pulmonary tuberculosis, nephrosis, nephritis, adenoma (including the thyroid gland), acne, furunculosis, chronic pyoderma, urticaria and hemorrhagic diathesis.

Also a solution of iodine alcohol (1%, 5%, 2%) should not be used by pregnant women and in children up to five years.

Instructions for use

How should I use a solution of iodine alcohol 5%? When applied externally, they impregnate a cotton swab or swab, and then shortly treat the damaged skin areas. If it is necessary to burn the existing wound, the treatment with iodine should be carried out for more than 5-10 seconds (keep the fleece until tender tingling of the skin).

Dosage for oral administration of this medication should only be determined by the doctor. The number and frequency of drug intake are selected individually and depend on the indications, as well as the age of the patient.

Do not forget that often alcoholic solution of iodine is used topically. They are washed lacunae and supratonsillar space. For this, 4-5 procedures are performed with breaks of 2-3 days.

For the purpose of irrigation of the nasopharynx, the medication is used 2-3 times a week for 2-3 months. For instillation of the drug in the ear, as well as its washing, iodine is used for 3-4 weeks.

One can not help saying that this medication is very popular in surgical practice. It is also used for burns. In the solution, gauze wipes are soaked, and then (as necessary) are applied to the affected surface.

Side effects

Like any medicine, iodine solution can also cause side effects. Their appearance and degree of severity depend on the purpose for which the drug was used.

External application may cause skin irritation. With prolonged treatment of the skin on extensive surfaces, iodism often develops (its symptoms are salivation, rhinitis, acne, urticaria, lachrymation and edema of Quincke).

When taking the medication inside, nervousness, skin allergic reactions, diarrhea (in people over 40 years old), tachycardia, excessive sweating and sleep disturbances can occur.

Compatibility with other tools

Pharmaceutically, the iodine solution is incompatible with solutions of ammonia, essential oils and white sedimentary mercury (in the latter case, an explosive mixture is formed).

It should also be noted that the acidic or alkaline environment, pus in the blood and the presence of fat significantly weaken the antiseptic activity of iodine.

This medication is able to reduce the strugogenic and hypothyroid effects of lithium preparations.

Price and reviews about the drug

Now you know what is an alcohol solution of iodine. A doctor's recipe is not required when buying it. You can buy this medication for 50-60 rubles.

As for the reviews, there is a great variety of iodine preparations. Alcohol solution of this element is available in almost every home medicine cabinet. Most often people use it for wounds and burns, as well as for warming effect. In addition, this medication is often used for local treatment of sore throat. To this end, a solution of iodine in a number of drops is diluted with a glass of water, and then rinse them with lacunae.

As for oral administration, this practice is very rare. Experts do not recommend taking iodine orally without consulting a doctor.