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
Tincture of iodine common concentration for sanitization is 25 ppm idophor for 1 minute. However, the effectiveness depends on whether the solution penetrates into rifts, and whether dirt is effectively removed at first. But, oocytes of protozoan parasites will not be killed, and it is also doubtful that bacterial spores are killed. Iodine solutions should not be considered able to sanitize or disinfect salad, fruit or vegetables that are contaminated by feces. Thus, it should not be considered safe to eat raw fruit, salads and vegetables which are sanitized with iodine, if they could be contaminated by feces. Iodine tincture is not a