What is the difference between hydrogen peroxide and iodophor?
Jan 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Hydrogen peroxide solution and povidone-iodine differ in composition, mechanism of action, indications, irritancy, color and physical form, as well as storage stability. Hydrogen peroxide solution must be stored protected from light and sealed to prevent decomposition and loss of efficacy due to exposure to light and air. Povidone-iodine is relatively stable, but during use, care should also be taken to avoid contamination and prolonged exposure to air.
Hydrogen peroxide solution, also known as双氧水, differs from povidone-iodine in composition, mechanism of action, application scope, irritancy, color and appearance, as well as storage stability. The specific differences are analyzed as follows:
1. Composition: The main component of hydrogen peroxide solution is hydrogen peroxide, while the primary component of povidone-iodine is iodine, usually composed of an appropriate amount of iodine dissolved in medical-grade alcohol. It may also contain other ingredients such as potassium chloride and polyvinylpyrrolidone.
2. Mechanism of Action: Hydrogen peroxide solution achieves disinfection by its strong oxidizing property, reacting with proteins on the bacterial surface and damaging the integrity of the bacterial cell wall. Povidone-iodine, on the other hand, inhibits protein synthesis and enzyme activity by binding to proteins, thereby killing bacteria and offering broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects.
3. Application Scope: Hydrogen peroxide solution is commonly used for cleaning skin and mucous membranes and disinfecting minor wounds. It can also be used for environmental disinfection and preoperative site preparation. Povidone-iodine is suitable for disinfection of skin, mucous membranes, and wound surfaces, effectively inhibiting various pathogens. It can also be used for treating large wounds, burns, and deep tissue infections.
4. Irritancy: As hydrogen peroxide belongs to the class of oxides, it may cause mild pain or burning sensation upon application, especially at high concentrations, which may lead to adverse reactions such as skin whitening or blistering. In comparison, povidone-iodine is less irritating and generally does not cause noticeable irritation.
5. Color and Appearance: Hydrogen peroxide solution is typically a colorless, transparent liquid, whereas povidone-iodine is a brown or reddish-brown liquid. This color difference allows povidone-iodine to form a protective film on the wound surface after application, making it easier to monitor wound changes.
When storing hydrogen peroxide solution, it is important to keep it protected from light and sealed to prevent decomposition and loss of efficacy due to exposure to light and air. Povidone-iodine is relatively stable but should also be protected from contamination and prolonged exposure to air during use.
