Iodine (medical use)

Iodine is a chemical element with many uses in medicine, depending on the form. Elemental iodine and iodophors are topical antiseptics. Iodine, in non-elemental form, functions as an essential nutrient in human biology (see iodine in biology). Organic compounds containing iodine are also useful iodinated contrast agents in X-ray imaging.

Common side effects when applied to the skin include irritation and discoloration. Supplementation during pregnancy is recommended in regions where deficiency is common, otherwise it is not recommended. Iodine is an essential trace element.

In 1811, Bernard Courtois isolated iodine from seaweed while in 1820 Jean-Francois Coindet linked iodine intake to goiter size. It initially came into use as a disinfectant and a treatment for goiter. The following forms of iodine are found on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines:

  • Potassium iodide: 18, 42, 43 
  • Amidotrizoate: 40 
  • Iohexol: 40 
  • Meglumine iotroxat: 41 
  • Povidone iodine: 41 
  • "Iodine": 50  – less ambiguously known as iodized oil

In addition, table salt with non-elemental iodine, known as iodized salt, is available in more than 110 countries.

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