Betadine Sore Throat Spray

Betadine Sore Throat Spray is an antiseptic oral spray whose active ingredient is povidone-iodine at 0.45%. Povidone-iodine is a complex of iodine with a polymer carrier, which releases free iodine slowly and is widely used in antiseptic products. The spray is a dark brown liquid that is applied to the back of the throat.

Iodine acts on microorganisms by oxidising key proteins and structures in the cell, giving the product broad antimicrobial activity. The polymer carrier makes the product less irritating than tincture of iodine and allows it to be handled easily in a spray format. The metered spray allows the liquid to be directed to the back of the throat without the need to measure out a dose.

Betadine Sore Throat Spray is available through DoctorOnCall for delivery in Malaysia and Singapore and is sold over the counter. Because the product contains iodine, customers with thyroid conditions or iodine sensitivity should seek advice first. Please read the leaflet, follow the directions and speak to a pharmacist about other medicines or conditions before use.

For use in the mouth and throat only. Follow the directions on the pack or the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.

1. Open your mouth wide and point the nozzle towards the back of the throat.
2. Press the pump to release the spray while breathing gently and holding your breath briefly; do not inhale deeply.
3. Do not swallow large amounts; spit out any excess.
4. Avoid eating or drinking for a short while afterwards so the spray stays in contact with the throat.

Avoid spraying into the eyes. If the spray gets into your eyes, rinse well with water.

Adults and children over 6 years: Spray the number of times stated on the leaflet into the throat, a few times a day. The exact dose and interval should follow the printed instructions or the advice of a healthcare professional.

Children under 6 years: Not recommended unless advised by a doctor.

Missed dose: Skip it and take the next use at the usual time. Do not use extra to make up.

Do not use for longer than the period stated on the pack, and do not exceed the stated maximum number of uses per day, because long use may affect the thyroid.

Store in a cool place away from direct sunlight and heat, with the cap replaced after use. Keep out of the reach of children. The spray can stain fabrics, so avoid contact with clothing.

• Common: Temporary burning, stinging or irritation of the mouth or throat.
• Common: A metallic or iodine taste.
• Common: Temporary staining of the tongue, teeth or mouth.
• Serious: Allergic reaction such as a rash, hives, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, which needs emergency medical help.
• Serious: Symptoms of thyroid disturbance with prolonged or excessive use, including palpitations, weight change, sweating or tremor, which need medical review.

• Known hypersensitivity to povidone-iodine, iodine or any other ingredient in the spray.
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) or other thyroid disease such as nodular goitre or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
• Before or after radioactive iodine treatment or thyroid scanning.
• Dermatitis herpetiformis (Duhring’s disease).
• Newborn babies and infants, and children under the age stated on the leaflet.

• Lithium: regular use of povidone-iodine can be absorbed and may interact with lithium, so avoid prolonged use.
• Thyroid tests and radioactive iodine scans can be affected by iodine absorption, so tell your doctor you have used the spray.
• Do not use together with other antiseptic products containing mercury or enzymatic products, as these can reduce the effect of each.
• Do not use together with other throat sprays or gargles at the same time without advice.
• No known food interactions.

• Do not inhale deeply while spraying.
• Do not use for longer than the period on the pack.
• Avoid contact with clothing, as the spray can stain.
• Do not share the spray with other people.
• Tell your doctor about any thyroid condition before using.
• Replace the cap after every use.

Precautions: Not for use in people with thyroid disease or iodine allergy, and not to be continued beyond the period on the pack. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless advised by a doctor. Not recommended for young children. Do not inhale deeply while spraying, and avoid contact with the eyes.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: See a doctor if symptoms last longer than 2 days, or if they come with fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, a rash, or swollen glands. Seek immediate medical help if you develop swelling of the face or throat, or signs of an allergic reaction. Tell your doctor about any thyroid symptoms such as palpitations, sweating or tremor.