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Iodinated (Povidone-iodine) API Manufacturers & Suppliers

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Distributor
Produced in  United States
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Employees: 50+

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CoA

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CoA
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Produced in  Unknown
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Employees: 275+

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MSDS
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CoA

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Employees: 10

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Produced in  Singapore
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WC
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Produced in  India
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CoA

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Povidone-iodine | CAS No: 25655-41-8 | GMP-certified suppliers

A medication that supports reliable prevention and treatment of wound and gynecologic infections through broad topical antimicrobial action used across surgical, dermatologic, and gynecologic care.

Therapeutic categories

AlkenesAnti-Infective AgentsAnti-Infective Agents, LocalAntifungal Agents (Vaginal)Antiseptics and DisinfectantsCompounds used in a research, industrial, or household setting
Generic name
Povidone-iodine
Molecule type
small molecule
CAS number
25655-41-8
DrugBank ID
DB06812
Approval status
Approved drug
ATC code
G01AX11

Primary indications

  • For topical application in the treatment and prevention of infection in wounds

Product Snapshot

  • Topical antiseptic available in multiple cutaneous and mucosal formulations such as liquids, solutions, gels, ointments, swabs, sprays, and related kit presentations
  • Used for prevention and management of wound contamination and surface microbial burden
  • Approved and marketed in the US and Canada

Clinical Overview

Povidone‑iodine (CAS 25655‑41‑8) is a stable iodophore composed of polyvinylpyrrolidone complexed with elemental iodine, providing 9 to 12 percent available iodine on a dry basis. It is indicated for topical use in the prevention and treatment of wound infections and is widely applied across surgical, dermatologic, and gynecologic settings. Vaginal gel formulations provide localized treatment of infectious vaginitis and support sustained release of free iodine to maintain antimicrobial activity on mucosal surfaces.

Its pharmacological activity derives from the controlled liberation of free iodine, which rapidly penetrates microbial cell walls. The antimicrobial effect is attributed to oxidative disruption and denaturation of proteins, nucleotides, and membrane components, leading to loss of structural integrity and cell death. Povidone‑iodine demonstrates broad in vitro activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and mycobacteria. Although effective against many pathogens, longer contact times may be required for fungal species and bacterial spores, and published data note variable performance in the presence of organic material.

The mechanism of action is not fully resolved, but free iodine is known to disrupt respiratory chain enzymes and interfere with nucleic acid and protein synthesis. In vitro evidence also suggests ancillary anti‑inflammatory effects through modulation of redox pathways and inhibition of select cytokines and matrix‑degrading enzymes.

Absorption through intact skin is low, though systemic iodine uptake can increase with extensive or repeated application, especially on compromised skin or mucosa. Excessive exposure may affect thyroid function, particularly in neonates or patients with pre‑existing thyroid disease. Local irritation is possible, and ocular tissues are sensitive to concentrated solutions.

Common usage contexts include preoperative skin preparation, wound cleansing, and gynecologic antisepsis, with numerous commercial solutions, scrubs, and gels available internationally.

For API procurement, suppliers should provide clear specifications for available iodine content, impurity profile, polymer characteristics, and microbial quality. Control of iodine release properties and polymer stability is essential for consistent formulation performance.

Identification & chemistry

Generic name Povidone-iodine
Molecule type Small molecule
CAS 25655-41-8
UNII 85H0HZU99M
DrugBank ID DB06812

Pharmacology

SummaryPovidone‑iodine is an iodophore that delivers free iodine, which penetrates microbial cells and disrupts proteins, nucleic acids, and membrane components, producing broad-spectrum microbicidal activity. Its pharmacodynamic effect reflects sustained iodine release, enabling activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and mycobacteria. In vitro findings also suggest ancillary modulation of inflammatory pathways through redox effects and altered cytokine and enzyme activity.
Mechanism of actionPovidone-iodine is called iodophore which means povidone acts as a carrier of iodine. Iodine is considered as the active moiety that mediates microbicidal actions. When released from the complex, free iodine (I2) penetrates the cell wall of microorganisms quickly, and the lethal effects are believed to result from disruption of protein and nucleic acid structure and synthesis. While the full mechanism of action is not fully elucidated, iodine is thought to inhibit vital bacterial cellular mechanisms and structures, and oxidizes nucleotides fatty or amino acids in bacterial cell membranes . Additionally, free iodine disrupts the function of the cytosolic enzymes involved in the respiratory chain, causing them to become denatured and deactivated . _In vitro_ evidence suggests that iodine also counteracts inflammation elicited by both pathogens and the host response via multifactorial effects. In hosts, povidone-iodine was demonstrated to modulate the redox potential, inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and β-galactosidase, inhibit metalloproteinase production, and potentiate the healing signals from pro-inflammatory cytokines by activation of monocytes, T-lymphocytes, and macrophages, _in vitro_ .
PharmacodynamicsPovidone iodine is a kind of iodine disinfectant which directly cause in vivo protein denaturation, precipitation of bacteria, and further resulting in the death of pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, it is effective in disinfection and sterilization. It can kill viruses, bacteria, spores, fungi, and protozoa with low toxicity to human. Povidone-iodine aqueous solution has strong pharmacological activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, syphilis, hepatitis B virus, HIV, and Trichomonas vaginalis. Povidone iodine gel is a gynecological topical semi-mobile colloidal agent made by povidone iodine and hydrophilic matrix. It is a system for maintaining its sustained release. Owing to the continuous release of free iodine, it can enable the skin and mucous membranes to maintain a certain effective concentration of iodine for killing bacteria. It is mainly used for gynecological vaginal infection. It exerted its effect through being miscible with vaginal secretions and further killing the inside pathogenic microorganisms, and thus blocking the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and invasion, as well as treating other infected vaginal diseases caused by other kinds of bacteria. Published reports on the in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of iodophors demonstrate that iodophors are bactericidal, mycobactericidal, and virucidal but can require prolonged contact times to kill certain fungi and bacterial spores. Three brands of povidone-iodine solution have demonstrated more rapid kill (seconds to minutes) of S. aureus and M. chelonae at a 1:100 dilution than did the stock solution. The virucidal activity of 75–150 ppm available iodine was demonstrated against seven viruses. Other investigators have questioned the efficacy of iodophors against poliovirus in the presence of organic matter and rotavirus in distilled or tapwater. Manufacturers' data demonstrate that commercial iodophors are not sporicidal, but they are tuberculocidal, fungicidal, virucidal, and bactericidal at their recommended use-dilution.

ADME / PK

AbsorptionPovidone-Iodine is intended for topical application and is not absorbed.
Half-lifePovidone-Iodine is intended for topical application and is not eliminated.
Protein bindingTo be used topical. No plasma protein binding reported.
MetabolismPovidone-Iodine is not absorbed or metabolized.
Route of eliminationPovidone-Iodine is intended for topical application and is not eliminated.
Volume of distributionPovidone-Iodine is intended for topical application and has no volume of distribution.
ClearancePovidone-Iodine is intended for topical application and is not eliminated.

Formulation & handling

  • Primarily formulated as topical antiseptic solutions, gels, and ointments; aqueous systems must maintain sufficient free iodine while controlling pH to balance stability and antimicrobial activity.
  • Iodine release is sensitive to light, heat, and organic load, so packaging often uses amber containers and formulations may include stabilizers to limit iodine depletion and polymer degradation.
  • Not typically used systemically; inadvertent systemic exposure (oral, ophthalmic, inhalation) requires attention to iodine load and excipient compatibility because povidone–iodine can interact with metals, proteins, and reducing agents.

Regulatory status

LifecycleMost U.S. patents for this API expire between 2023 and 2027, indicating that the product is moving from mid‑ to late‑lifecycle status. With commercialization limited to the US and Canada, market maturity will increase as remaining protections lapse.
MarketsUS, Canada
Supply Chain
Supply chain summaryPovidone‑iodine is supplied by multiple established manufacturers, with originator activity primarily related to specific formulations or delivery systems rather than the core antiseptic API. Branded products are widely available in the US and Canada, reflecting broad global use of this mature ingredient. Several listed US patents expire between 2023 and 2027, indicating that formulation‑level protections are ending and generic or alternative presentations are already well established.

Safety

ToxicityORAL (LD50): Acute: 8000 mg/kg [Rat]. 8100 mg/kg [Mouse]
High Level Warnings:
  • High oral LD50 values in rodents (approx
  • 8000–8100 mg/kg) indicate low acute oral toxicity, but ingestion should still be avoided in manufacturing environments
  • Dust or aerosol generation should be minimized to prevent unintended exposure, as systemic effects at elevated doses are possible

Povidone-iodine is a type of Disinfectants


Disinfectants are a crucial subcategory of pharmaceutical Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) that play a vital role in maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of harmful microorganisms. These chemical agents are designed to eliminate or inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens on various surfaces and objects.

Pharmaceutical-grade disinfectants are formulated to meet stringent quality standards and are commonly used in hospitals, laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, and other healthcare settings. They are also utilized in the food and beverage industry, as well as in households, to ensure proper sanitation and hygiene.

Disinfectants typically contain active ingredients such as quaternary ammonium compounds, chlorine compounds, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol, which have been proven effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms. These active ingredients work by disrupting the cell membranes or enzymatic processes of the pathogens, rendering them incapable of replication and causing their eventual destruction.

When selecting a disinfectant, factors such as the intended application, target microorganisms, and compatibility with the surfaces or objects being treated need to be considered. It is crucial to follow proper usage instructions and adhere to recommended contact times for effective disinfection.

In conclusion, disinfectants are essential pharmaceutical APIs used to control and prevent the spread of harmful microorganisms. Their efficacy in eliminating pathogens makes them indispensable in maintaining cleanliness and ensuring public health and safety.


Povidone-iodine (Disinfectants), classified under Antidotes, Deterrents, and Toxicologic Agents


Antidotes, Deterrents, and Toxicologic Agents are an important category of pharmaceutical Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) that play a critical role in healthcare and toxicology. These substances are designed to counteract the effects of poisons, toxins, and overdoses, thereby saving lives and preventing severe health consequences.

Antidotes are substances that neutralize the toxic effects of certain drugs, chemicals, or poisons. They work by either directly binding to the toxic substance or by blocking its harmful actions on the body. Antidotes are administered in emergency situations to quickly reverse the effects of poisoning and restore normal physiological functions.

Deterrents, on the other hand, are pharmaceutical agents used to discourage or prevent harmful behaviors, such as substance abuse. They are designed to make the ingestion or misuse of certain substances unpleasant or less desirable. Deterrents can be formulated to cause unpleasant side effects, such as nausea or vomiting, when a particular substance is consumed in excessive amounts.

Toxicologic agents encompass a broad range of pharmaceutical APIs used in toxicology studies and research. These substances are employed to investigate the toxicity, metabolism, and mechanisms of action of various chemicals and compounds. Toxicologic agents are vital for understanding the potential hazards and risks associated with certain substances, ensuring the safety of drugs, and developing effective treatments for poisoning cases.

In conclusion, Antidotes, Deterrents, and Toxicologic Agents are essential categories of pharmaceutical APIs that address poisoning emergencies, deter harmful behaviors, and enable toxicological research. Their development and availability are crucial for safeguarding public health, enhancing patient care, and advancing our understanding of toxicology.



Povidone-iodine API manufacturers & distributors

Compare qualified Povidone-iodine API suppliers worldwide. We currently have 15 companies offering Povidone-iodine API, with manufacturing taking place in 7 different countries. Use the table below to review supplier type, countries of origin, certifications, product portfolio and GMP audit availability.

SupplierTypeCountryProduct originCertificationsPortfolio
Distributor
Singapore Singapore BSE/TSE, CEP, CoA, EDMF/ASMF, FDA, GMP, ISO9001, JDMF, KDMF, MSDS, USDMF, WC200 products
Producer
Switzerland Switzerland CEP, CoA9 products
Producer
Germany Unknown CEP, CoA, FDA, GMP, USDMF18 products
Distributor
Germany Unknown BSE/TSE, CoA, GMP, ISO9001, MSDS211 products
Producer
United States United States CoA, USDMF1 products
Producer
India India CoA, WC1 products
Distributor
United States United States CoA, FDA, GMP166 products
Producer
India India CoA, GMP, WC12 products
Producer
India India CoA, USDMF2 products
Producer
India India CoA, USDMF2 products
Producer
China China CoA, WC3 products
Producer
China China CoA, USDMF1 products
Distributor
China China CoA, GMP, ISO9001, USDMF757 products
Distributor
India India BSE/TSE, CoA, FDA, GMP, MSDS263 products
Producer
Germany Germany CEP, CoA1 products

When sending a request, specify which Povidone-iodine API quality you need: for example EP (Ph. Eur.), USP, JP, BP, or another pharmacopoeial standard, as well as the required grade (base, salt, micronised, specific purity, etc.).

Use the list above to find high-quality Povidone-iodine API suppliers. For example, you can select GMP, FDA or ISO certified suppliers. Visit our help page to learn more about sourcing APIs via Pharmaoffer.

Frequently asked questions about Povidone-iodine API


Sourcing

What matters most when sourcing GMP-grade Povidone-iodine?
Key factors include verifying GMP compliance and meeting US and Canadian regulatory requirements for antiseptic APIs. Suppliers should provide clear documentation on quality, consistency, and traceability across manufacturing sites. Given multiple established producers and expiring formulation‑level patents, confirm that the material aligns with the intended formulation and any applicable compendial specifications.
Which documents are typically required when sourcing Povidone-iodine API?
Request the core API documentation set: CoA (15 companies), GMP (7 companies), USDMF (7 companies), FDA (4 companies), CEP (4 companies). Confirm versions and validity dates match the destination market to avoid delays in qualification.
Which manufacturers are known to produce Povidone-iodine API?
Known or reported manufacturers for Povidone-iodine: Caesar & Loretz GmbH (CAELO), Pharm Rx Chemical Corp, Sinoway industrial Co.,Ltd, Apollo Healthcare Resources (Singapore), Tenatra Exports Private Limited. Evaluate their GMP history, scale, and regional coverage before requesting dossiers or allocating demand.
How can I request quotes for Povidone-iodine API from GMP suppliers?
Submit quote requests through the supplier listings with your specs and required documents (specifications, target volume, delivery timeline, and destination). Providing consistent details upfront speeds comparable offers and clarifies technical feasibility.
Is a GMP audit report available for Povidone-iodine manufacturers?
Audit reports may be requested for Povidone-iodine: 1 GMP audit report available. Confirm the scope and recency of any audit before relying on it for qualification decisions.
How many suppliers offer Povidone-iodine API on Pharmaoffer?
Reported supplier count for Povidone-iodine: 15 verified suppliers. Filter listings by certifications, regions, and delivery options to match your qualification plan.
Which countries are known to manufacture Povidone-iodine API?
Production countries reported for Povidone-iodine: India (5 producers), China (3 producers), United States (2 producers). Knowing the manufacturing geography helps anticipate logistics lead times and import compliance needs.
Which certifications do suppliers of Povidone-iodine usually hold?
Common certifications for Povidone-iodine suppliers: CoA (15 companies), GMP (7 companies), USDMF (7 companies), FDA (4 companies), CEP (4 companies). Always verify issuing authorities and expiry dates when reviewing audit packages.

Technical

What is Povidone-iodine (CAS 25655-41-8) used for?
Povidone‑iodine is used as a topical antiseptic to prevent and treat wound and mucosal infections in surgical, dermatologic, and gynecologic settings. It releases free iodine that provides broad antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and mycobacteria. Vaginal gel formulations are used for localized treatment of infectious vaginitis.
Which therapeutic class does Povidone-iodine fall into?
Povidone-iodine belongs to the following therapeutic categories: Alkenes, Anti-Infective Agents, Anti-Infective Agents, Local, Antifungal Agents (Vaginal), Antiseptics and Disinfectants. This positioning helps teams compare alternative APIs, anticipate pharmacology expectations, and align early research priorities.
What conditions is Povidone-iodine mainly prescribed for?
The primary indications for Povidone-iodine: For topical application in the treatment and prevention of infection in wounds. These use cases frame the target patient populations and help prioritize formulation and safety evaluations.
How does Povidone-iodine work?
Povidone-iodine is called iodophore which means povidone acts as a carrier of iodine. Iodine is considered as the active moiety that mediates microbicidal actions. When released from the complex, free iodine (I2) penetrates the cell wall of microorganisms quickly, and the lethal effects are believed to result from disruption of protein and nucleic acid structure and synthesis. While the full mechanism of action is not fully elucidated, iodine is thought to inhibit vital bacterial cellular mechanisms and structures, and oxidizes nucleotides fatty or amino acids in bacterial cell membranes . Additionally, free iodine disrupts the function of the cytosolic enzymes involved in the respiratory chain, causing them to become denatured and deactivated . _In vitro_ evidence suggests that iodine also counteracts inflammation elicited by both pathogens and the host response via multifactorial effects. In hosts, Povidone-iodine was demonstrated to modulate the redox potential, inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and β-galactosidase, inhibit metalloproteinase production, and potentiate the healing signals from pro-inflammatory cytokines by activation of monocytes, T-lymphocytes, and macrophages, _in vitro_ .
What should someone know about the safety or toxicity profile of Povidone-iodine?
Povidone‑iodine has low acute oral toxicity in animal models, but ingestion and unnecessary inhalation of dust or aerosols should be avoided in manufacturing settings. Systemic iodine absorption is generally minimal through intact skin, yet it can increase with repeated or extensive use, especially on compromised tissue, with potential effects on thyroid function in susceptible individuals. Local irritation may occur, and concentrated solutions can injure ocular tissues.
What are important formulation and handling considerations for Povidone-iodine as an API?
Formulation should maintain adequate free iodine while controlling pH to preserve stability and antimicrobial activity in aqueous systems. Because iodine release is sensitive to light, heat, and organic material, products are commonly packaged in light‑protective containers and may include stabilizers to limit iodine loss and polymer degradation. Povidone‑iodine is formulated for topical use, so handling should minimize unintended systemic exposure and avoid contact with incompatible substances such as metals, proteins, and reducing agents.
Is Povidone-iodine a small molecule?
Povidone-iodine is classified as a small molecule. That classification shapes process design, impurity profiling, and analytical control strategies.
Are there special stability concerns for oral Povidone-iodine?
Yes. If used in an oral context, the same stability issues seen in aqueous topical systems apply: iodine release is sensitive to light, heat, and organic material, which can lead to iodine depletion and polymer degradation. pH control and protection from light are important to maintain available iodine. Compatibility with proteins, metals, and reducing agents also needs attention because these can inactivate iodine.

Regulatory

Where is Povidone-iodine approved or in use globally?
Povidone-iodine is reported as approved in the following major regions: US, Canada. Understanding geographic coverage informs regulatory filings, supply planning, and risk assessments before escalating procurement.
What’s the regulatory and patent landscape for Povidone-iodine right now?
In the US and Canada, povidone‑iodine is regulated for use in antiseptic and related applications under each country’s established requirements for such products. As a long‑established API, it is not covered by active patent protection and is generally considered off‑patent.

Pharmaoffer

How does Pharmaoffer’s Smart Sourcing Service help with Povidone-iodine procurement?
Pharmaoffer's Smart Sourcing Service coordinates compliant suppliers, documentation, and competitive quotes for Povidone-iodine. It centralizes outreach, follow-ups, and document validation to shorten procurement timelines.
Is Povidone-iodine included in the PRO Data Insights coverage?
PRO Data Insights coverage for Povidone-iodine: 9 verified transactions across 5 suppliers and 4 buyers worldwide. Use the dataset to benchmark suppliers and monitor regulatory activity where available.
Where can I access the API market report for Povidone-iodine?
Market report availability for Povidone-iodine: Report Available. The report highlights demand trends, pricing drivers, and supplier landscape insights for procurement planning.