Betadine Sore Throat Gargle (Povidone-Iodine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Betadine Sore Throat Gargle Used For?
Betadine Sore Throat Gargle is a concentrated antibacterial formula designed to help treat sore throats. It contains povidone-iodine as the active ingredient and alcohol (30.5% w/v).
Primary Uses
Used as an aid in the treatment of sore throats
How It Works
Contains povidone-iodine which provides antibacterial action to help treat throat infections
Important: This gargle must not be swallowed and is not intended for routine use as a breath freshener or mouthwash
How to Take Betadine Sore Throat Gargle
This gargle must be diluted before use. A convenient measure is included in the pack for proper dilution.
Dosage Instructions
Dilute 1mL to 20mL with water using the measure provided (or alternatively add 20 drops to 20mL water) and gargle for 30 seconds. The maximum treatment duration of 14 days should not be exceeded.
When to Use
Use as needed for sore throat symptoms, but do not exceed 14 days of treatment as prolonged use could result in normal microbial flora imbalance in the mouth
Must Not Be Swallowed: Betadine Sore Throat Gargle must never be swallowed – for gargling only
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- coughing
- difficulty breathing
- wheezing
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- allergic reactions (difficulty breathing or swallowing, rash, swelling of face, lips, throat or tongue)
- thyroid disorders (weight loss, increased appetite and sweating, or lack of energy and weight gain)
- increased amounts of acid in blood (shortness of breath, confusion and lethargy)
- electrolyte imbalance
- abnormal blood osmolarity
- kidney failure (difficulty urinating, thirst and dry mouth, pain in one side of back)
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings and contraindications to be aware of before using this medication.
Who Should Not Take Betadine Sore Throat Gargle
Do not use if you are allergic to povidone or any ingredients; have severe sore throat with fever, headache, nausea or vomiting; have sore throat persisting more than 2 days; have hypersensitivity to povidone iodine, iodine, or polyvinylpyrrolidone; have thyroid disease including goiter, thyroid nodules, or other thyroid diseases; are pregnant or breastfeeding; or for children 6 years and under. Do not use for 4 weeks prior to cancer treatment of the thyroid.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Check with your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, take medicines for other conditions, or currently have or have ever had kidney problems as this product may cause toxic levels of iodine to be absorbed into your blood.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
During pregnancy and lactation, povidone-iodine preparations should only be used if strictly prescribed by the doctor and use should be kept to the absolute minimum. Absorbed iodine can cross the placental barrier and can be secreted in breast milk.
Thyroid Patients: Especially important for elderly patients – those with thyroid disease may be at risk of developing hyperthyroidism from large amounts of iodine
Drug Interactions
Several medications and substances can interact with Betadine Sore Throat Gargle and affect how it works.
Diagnostic Tests: May show inaccurate results with diagnostic tests for blood or glucose in stool or urine due to oxidative effects
- Lithium (for depression) – can affect thyroid gland function
- Wound-treatment preparations containing enzymatic components
- Disinfectants containing silver, hydrogen peroxide or taurolidine
- Mercury derivatives (contraindicated)
- Hydrogen-peroxide mouthwash
- Octenidine containing antiseptics
Alcohol & Driving
Betadine Sore Throat Gargle has no influence on the ability to drive and use machines.
Driving and Operating Machinery
This medication does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely.
Storage
Keep your medicine in a cool dry place where temperature stays below 25°C. Do not heat the solution. Store in a cool dry place away from moisture, heat or sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near a sink, in the car or on window sills. Keep where young children cannot reach it.
Overdose Information
If you think you have used too much Betadine Sore Throat Gargle, you may need urgent medical attention. Immediately phone the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26 in Australia, 0800 POISON or 0800 764766 in New Zealand), contact your doctor, or go to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital, even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
The maximum treatment duration is 14 days. Prolonged treatment beyond this could result in normal microbial flora imbalance in the mouth.
No, Betadine Sore Throat Gargle must never be swallowed. It is for gargling only.
Dilute 1mL to 20mL with water using the measure provided, or alternatively add 20 drops to 20mL water, then gargle for 30 seconds.
No, do not use if you have thyroid disease including goiter, thyroid nodules, or other thyroid diseases, especially if you are elderly, as there may be a risk of developing hyperthyroidism.
No, Betadine Sore Throat Gargle will not permanently stain teeth, skin or natural fabrics.
No, this product is not for use on children 6 years and under.
For less serious side effects like coughing or breathing difficulties, speak to your doctor if they worry you. For serious side effects like allergic reactions or thyroid symptoms, call your doctor straight away or go to the Emergency Department.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.