Povidone iodine is a loose complex composed of elemental iodine and polymer carrier. Povidone plays a
role of carrier and solubilization. It is redish brown to brownish red amorphous powder at room temperature.
Slightly odorous, easily soluble in water or ethanol, acidic aqueous solution, Povidone iodine aqueous solution
has no disadvantages of iodine tincture, light coloring, easy elution, little irritation to mucous membrane, no
deiodination with ethanol, no corrosion and low toxicity.

Povidone iodine has the function of disinfection and sterilization