Akvidin (Povidone-Iodine) 200 mg, 10 pessaries

What is Akvidin (Povidone-Iodine) 200 mg, 10 Pessaries?

Akvidin is a medicinal product in the form of vaginal pessaries that contain 200 mg of povidone-iodine, equivalent to 20 mg of iodine.

Povidone-iodine is widely used for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, making it effective in treating a variety of gynecological infections.

This medicine is designed for intravaginal use to help manage acute and chronic vaginal infections, including mixed infections.

How Does Akvidin Work?

The active ingredient in Akvidin is povidone-iodine, which gradually releases iodine when in contact with the vaginal mucosa.

This slow release ensures a sustained concentration of free iodine, which is crucial for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial action.

The iodine targets and destroys various pathogens, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi (such as Candida species), viruses, protozoa, and spores.

The mechanism involves iodine binding with proteins in the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell death.

This action helps in restoring the normal vaginal flora while minimizing irritation to the mucous membranes.

What Are the Indications for Akvidin?

Akvidin is indicated for the treatment of various vaginal infections, including:

• Bacterial vaginosis and Gardnerella vaginalis infections.
• Fungal infections like Candida albicans, particularly those resulting from antibiotic or steroid use.
• Genital herpes.
• Trichomoniasis, often requiring combined systemic treatment.
• Preoperative and postoperative care to prevent infections during and after vaginal surgeries, as well as during obstetric and diagnostic procedures.

How Should Akvidin Be Used?

Akvidin pessaries are intended for intravaginal administration. Here’s how to use them:

1. For adults and the elderly: Insert one pessary deep into the vagina after moistening it with water. This should be done after proper hygienic cleansing.
2. Dosage for acute vaginitis: Use 1-2 pessaries daily for 7 days.
3. Dosage for chronic or subacute vaginitis: Use 1 pessary daily, preferably at bedtime, for 14 days or longer if necessary.

During treatment, it is recommended to use sanitary pads and continue using the pessaries even during menstruation.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

Like all medications, Akvidin can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include:

• Hypersensitivity reactions, such as redness and itching.
• In rare cases, contact dermatitis resembling psoriasis, or hyperthyroidism in predisposed individuals due to prolonged use.

Who Should Not Use Akvidin?

Akvidin is contraindicated in individuals with:

• Iodine sensitivity or allergy to any of its components.
• Thyroid disorders such as nodular colloid goiter, endemic goiter, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or hyperthyroidism.
• Thyroid adenoma or herpetiform dermatitis (Duhring's disease).
• Those undergoing radioactive iodine therapy.
• Children before puberty.

What Are the Special Precautions?

When using Akvidin, take note of the following precautions:

• Avoid contact with eyes. Rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of Akvidin during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, or while breastfeeding, should only be under strict medical supervision due to the risk of transient hypothyroidism in the fetus or newborn.
• Use of sanitary pads is recommended during treatment.
• Avoid use if planning pregnancy due to its spermicidal effects.
• Monitor thyroid function if there are symptoms of hyperthyroidism during treatment.

How Should Akvidin Be Stored?

Store Akvidin in a dry place, away from light, at a temperature not exceeding 25°C (77°F).

Keep out of reach of children.