Iodine antiseptic/disinfectant properties

A poly( -vinyl-2-pyrroHdinone)-iodine complex [25655-41-8] (PVP-iodine), has been used extensively in hospitals and elsewhere because of its germicidal, bactericidal, fungicidal, and generally disinfecting properties (150). It is sold as a solution that contains about 10% available, or active, iodine and about 5% inactive iodine, in the form of iodide ion (see Disinfectants and antiseptics Industrial antimicrobial agents). 

The corresponding iodine compound is the common substance, iodoform. It possesses both anesthetic and antiseptic properties and is a most important surgical disinfectant in the case of wounds or cuts. It is solid, crystallizing in beautiful yellow crystals. It is practically insoluble in water but is soluble in alcohol and ether. It is prepared by reactions exactly analogous to those used in the case of chloroform. 

Products and Uses An additive in dyes, antiseptics, germicides, pharmaceuticals, medicinal soap, a germicide in skin cosmetics, and OTC (over-the-counter) sore throat medicine and cough syrups. Derived from various sources, from mines to kelp. Found in hundreds of products. As internal medication for iodine deficiencies, external medication for its disinfecting and antibacterial properties. Interestingly, consuming excessive amounts of raw cabbage can cause an... 

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