Povidone Iodine 5%

Molnlycke announced several months ago that it was ceasing the manufacture of Betadine Aqueous, which is a 10% aqueous solution of Povidone Iodine (PI), commonly used diluted to 5% for disinfection of the ocular surface prior to intraocular surgery. Stocks of Betadine Aqueous 10% are running low across the UK and the College has been asked to provide advice about the availability of alternative sources of aqueous PI.

Molnlycke does not intend to resume production of Betadine Aqueous 10%, though it has expressed an interest in developing a sterile ophthalmic solution of 5% PI.

The attached paper, kindly prepared by Lucy Titcomb, Head of Pharmacy at the Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre provides detailed advice on alternative sources of aqueous Povidone Iodine solution.

Members should be aware that not all preparations of Povidone Iodine are suitable for use on the ocular surface and that when units need to obtain a replacement for Betadine Aqueous, an appropriate substitute is procured.


Richard Smith FRCS FRCOphth
Vice President and Chairman of Professional Standards
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists
July 2007

>Information on Povidone Iodine 5% (PDF Document)

Page updated 26 July 2007 (SAF)