DOSAGE

Betadine Sore Throat Gargle uses povidone-iodine to destroy the bacteria and viruses responsible for most sore throats. The gargle begins working within 30 seconds of administration and typically clears up a sore throat completely within 2 days.

Both a ready-to-use and concentrate version of this medication are available. The gargle should not be swallowed.

The active ingredient in Betadine Sore Throat Gargle, povidone-iodine, is widely used around the world as an antiseptic. It is a staple in hospitals, used to disinfect skin before and after surgery as well as to prevent or combat infection in wounds. Povidone-iodine is also commonly used in households around the globe to disinfect minor wounds, burns, insect bites or stings and so forth.

For sore throats, Betadine Sore Throat Gargle provides the same antiseptic properties of topical povidone-iodine where they're needed most---the back of the mouth and the throat. The medication kills a wide range of microbes, including:

• Bacteria
• Fungi
• Viruses
• Yeast
• Molds
• Protozoans

Most sore throats are caused by viruses or bacteria. Betadine Sore Throat Gargle is exceptionally useful for these cases, as povidone-iodine kills a broad range of both bacteria and viruses without contributing to bacterial or viral resistance. To the contrary, povidone-iodine is effective at destroying most microbes that are already resistant to antibiotics or antivirals, such as MRSA.

Betadine Sore Throat Gargle works entirely by killing microbes; while this action results in pain relief and alleviation of other symptoms caused by infections, it does not contain a painkiller or anti-inflammatory medication. This means the gargle will provide no relief from throat symptoms caused by non-microbial factors, such as a throat injury, allergies, exposure to smoke or similar causes.

The medication is easy to use:

• If using the concentrate, dilute the gargle using the measuring device and guidelines included with the product.
• Swish the medication in the mouth and gargle for at least 30 seconds.
• Spit out excess fluid; do not swallow.
• Repeat as needed every 3 to 4 hours.
• Continue treatment until all symptoms are gone.

Ideally Betadine Sore Throat Gargle will be used at the first symptoms of tenderness or irritation in the throat, though it is still useful at later stages. If used at early symptoms the condition is often cleared up within a day and other symptoms of illness, such as sneezing, congestion or coughing may be averted entirely.

If treatment starts at later stages it may take 2 or 3 days for all symptoms to be cleared up. In both cases, however, some relief is usually felt within moments of using the gargle the first time.

If the condition worsens during treatment or is not significantly improved after 2 days of using Betadine Sore Throat Gargle a doctor should be consulted. Likewise a sore throat accompanied by fever, nausea, vomiting or headaches may indicate a more serious condition that warrants medical attention.

Warnings before Use

Individuals allergic to iodine should not use this product. If pain, swelling, itching or other symptoms of an allergic reaction develop, discontinue use. If symptoms are severe emergency medical attention should be sought.

With the exception of allergic reactions, which are very rare, otherwise healthy patients should not experience any side effects. Swallowing the gargle can produce side effects, however; do not administer Betadine Sore Throat Gargle to patients unable to follow instructions to avoid swallowing. If children or pets consume the medication emergency medical attention should be sought.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this or any product containing iodine, including topical formulas, without first discussing potential risks with a doctor.

Check with a doctor or pharmacist before mixing Betadine Sore Throat Gargle with other sore throat medications. While dangerous interactions are very unlikely, mixing treatments may interfere with effectiveness.