Aplicare One Tincture of Iodine

Aplicare One Tincture of Iodine is an antiseptic preparation which is used to prevent and treat infections that may occur in minor scrapes and cuts. Indeed, it is a cleansing agent which is widely applied over superficial wounds and ulcers.

It acts as a local irritant and as a germicide active against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, trichomonas, cysts, viruses and some spores which can cause infections.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

• Dressing
• Gel/Jelly
• Ointment
• Swab
• Tincture

Before using Aplicare One Tincture of Iodine, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. The suitable drug therapy is usually chosen by a doctor with the active participation of the patient.

There are some important factors such as drug interactions, the presence of any metabolic impairment, history of hypersensitivity reaction, pregnancy, lactation etc. which may alter the desired therapeutic effects of a medicine.

Sometimes the presence of other health disorders affects the beneficial effects of this medicine and even may cause serious toxic effects. If you have had any allergic reactions to any medicine then you must tell your doctor about that.

It is advised to avoid regular use of iodine in patients with thyroid disorders or those receiving lithium therapy. This topical agent should not be used in those who show hypersensitivity to iodine.

Make sure you inform your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Acute bronchitis
• Nodular goiter
• Tuberculosis
• Animal bites
• Deep wounds
• Serious burns—the chance of side effects may be increased

Because of drug-drug interactions, certain medicines should not be used along with this medicine. It is always recommended to consult with your doctor if you are in need of some other medications or even any over-the-counter medicine for another health problem in order to avoid unwanted toxic effects.

Besides, the following drug interactions should be kept in mind:

• Additive or synergistic hypothyroid effect occurs with lithium salts and antithyroid agents.
• Additive hyperkalemia has been reported with combined use of potassium iodide and potassium containing drugs or potassium-sparing diuretics.

Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Thus, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Besides, caution should be exercised when used in lactating women because there are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding.

To use Aplicare One Tincture of Iodine properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. The dosage schedule and the duration of drug therapy should be individualized and determined based on the physician’s advice.

The therapeutic dose may also vary with the patient’s condition or requirement and the strength of the medicine as well.

This medicine comes with patient information. You should read and follow the instructions carefully before using this medicine. However, general instructions for use are given below:

• You should use this medicine only as directed by the healthcare professional.
• This medicine is intended for external use only. You must not swallow it.
• Always keep this medicine away from your eyes because it may cause irritation. If you may accidentally get some in your eyes, wash it away with water immediately.
• You should not use topical iodine on deep, puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.
• You should not cover the wound to which you have applied topical iodine with a tight dressing or bandage.
• To help clear up your infection completely, it is very important that you keep using topical iodine for the full time of treatment.

For minor wounds and infections:

• Adults and children ≥ 1 month of age – apply directly to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily according to the directions on the label or your doctor's instructions. But you should not use this agent for more than ten days.
• Infants and children under 1 month of age – use is not recommended.

For gargling and mouthwash:

• Adults and children ≥ 6 years of age – gargle with up to 10 ml undiluted or diluted with an equal quantity of warm water for up to 30 seconds, up to 4 times daily for up to 14 days.
• Children below 6 years of age – use is not recommended.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. But, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use this product for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

Further, it is advised to store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and direct light. All kinds of medicines should be kept out of the reach of children. However, outdated medicines should be disposed of by an appropriate way.

Before using Aplicare One Tincture of Iodine, there are some precautions you must take. Firstly, regular visits to your doctor are recommended to check that this medicine is working properly or not.

Additionally, the following guidelines should be followed to prevent unwanted complications as well as for the better prognosis of the patients: 

The topical application should not be covered with occlusive dressings since this may increase the chance of side effects.

If the skin problem for which you are using topical iodine becomes worse, or if you develop a constant irritation such as itching or burning that was not present before you started using this medicine, check with your doctor.

This medicine can stain your skin and clothing. Alcohol may be used to remove iodine stain on the skin. Stains on clothing can be removed by washing and rinsing them in ammonia diluted with water.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Aplicare One Tincture of Iodine. 

These side effects usually go away during the treatment episode as your body adjusts to the medicine. Your healthcare professional may advise you about the ways how to prevent or reduce those unwanted side effects.

Sometimes you may need to consult with the doctor if you notice any of the following toxic effects:

• Blistering
• crusting
• irritation
• itching
• reddening of skin

Symptoms of overdose (when swallowed) include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Nausea
• Severe thirst
• Vomiting
• Urinary incontinence

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.