Povidone-iodine in people with thyroid problems. Povidone-iodine is a chemical complex of povidone, hydrogen iodide, and elemental iodine. It contains from 9% to 12% available iodine. It works by releasing iodine which results in the death of a range of microorganisms. Povidone-iodine came into commercial use in 1955. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. Povidone-iodine is available over the counter. The wholesale cost in the developing world is about 3.30 to 11.40 per liter of 10% solution. This amount in the United Kingdom cost the
Iodine high electron density and atomic number, iodine absorbs X-rays weaker than 33.3 keV due to the photoelectric effect of the innermost electrons. Organoiodine compounds are used with intravenous injection as X-ray radiocontrast agents. This application is often in conjunction with advanced X-ray techniques such as angiography and CT scanning. At present, all water-soluble radiocontrast agents rely on iodine. The production of ethylenediamine dihydroiodide, provided as a nutritional supplement for livestock, consumes a large portion of available iodine. Another significant use is a catalyst for the production of acetic acid by the Monsanto and Cativa processes. In these technologies, which support