Are Povidone-iodine and Iodophor the same thing?

The common dosage forms of povidone-iodine are cream, solution, and suppository. Iodophor is actually the solution form of povidone-iodine. Essentially, iodophor and povidone-iodine are the same; they may differ only in their dosage forms. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Iodophor and povidone-iodine are essentially identical. Iodophor is actually one dosage form of povidone-iodine—specifically, a solution. As a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, common dosage forms of povidone-iodine include cream, solution, and suppository. All these different dosage forms of povidone-iodine contain a complex of iodine and polyvinylpyrrolidone.

As a povidone-iodine solution, iodophor also possesses broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and can kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Therefore, in terms of composition and mechanism of action, povidone-iodine and iodophor are consistent. The primary difference between the two may lie solely in their dosage forms. In practical applications, different dosage forms of povidone-iodine or iodophor can be selected for disinfection according to the patient's specific condition and the physician's recommendation.

When using povidone-iodine, it should be noted that some of its dosage forms may cause certain irritation to the skin and mucous membranes. Although iodophor is relatively mild, prolonged and frequent use should also be avoided to prevent skin irritation and damage. Both products should be avoided by individuals allergic to iodine.