Evidence supporting the use of: Iodine
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Iodine is primarily recognized for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, including efficacy against a range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Its use in treating or preventing infections is well-established, particularly in the context of topical antiseptics such as povidone-iodine solutions. Povidone-iodine is commonly used for skin disinfection before and after surgery and for wound care, with numerous studies supporting its effectiveness in reducing microbial load, including viral pathogens (e.g., influenza, coronaviruses, herpes simplex). In the context of viral infections specifically, in vitro research has demonstrated that povidone-iodine is capable of inactivating several clinically relevant viruses. For example, studies have shown that povidone-iodine can rapidly inactivate SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, in laboratory settings. Some clinical protocols have incorporated povidone-iodine nasal sprays or gargles as adjunctive measures to reduce viral transmission, though robust, large-scale clinical trial data are limited. Despite this, iodine is not used systemically to treat viral infections due to potential toxicity and lack of efficacy when administered orally or intravenously for this purpose. Its role remains largely external and preventive. In summary, the scientific evidence supports the topical use of iodine-containing formulations as an adjunct to infection control, including against certain viruses, although its role is not as a primary treatment for systemic viral infections.

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