Can expired povidone-iodine be used?
Jan 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
The main ingredient of iodophor is a broad-spectrum disinfectant formed by the combination of iodine and polyether alcohol. Once expired, its active ingredients may decompose or deteriorate, significantly reducing its disinfecting power and making it ineffective in killing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When treating wounds, using expired iodophor for disinfection may leave pathogenic microorganisms remaining, increasing the risk of infection.
Generally speaking, expired povidone-iodine should not be used. Detailed explanations are as follows:
Povidone-iodine is a broad-spectrum disinfectant composed primarily of iodine combined with polyether alcohol. Once expired, its active ingredients may decompose or degrade, significantly reducing its disinfecting effectiveness and its ability to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Using expired povidone-iodine for wound disinfection may leave residual pathogens on the wound, leading to infection, inflammation, pus formation, delayed wound healing, and potentially even more serious health complications.
After expiration, during storage, povidone-iodine may be affected by light, heat, oxygen, and other factors, causing changes in its chemical structure and potentially generating harmful substances. These harmful substances may irritate or damage the skin or mucous membranes, triggering allergic reactions or inflammation. Individuals with sensitive constitutions may experience discomfort after using expired povidone-iodine, mainly manifested as localized itching of the skin or mucous membranes, irritative pain, or even erosion.
Before using povidone-iodine, carefully check its manufacturing date and expiration date to ensure it is used within the valid period. If the povidone-iodine has expired, it should be discarded immediately, and a new product should be purchased for disinfection purposes.
