Preclinical Data Indicate No Resistance Against Anti-Infective Iodine
The Bio-Pharmaceutical Complex is revving up press briefings and stirring media hype over highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) or bird flu. What they are not telling you is how to manage this threat at home, particularly if you are a farm worker or keep birds on your property.
Sriwilaijaroen et al conducted a high-quality preclinical study of influenza virus strains on chicken egg cells and demonstrated that dilute povidone iodine was effective at neutralizing the two pathogenic parts of the influenza virus—hemagglutinin (binding) and sialidase (catalytic hydrolysis). Of note, these effects were complementary to the modest effect of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) in these experiments.
Key Findings:
- Dilute povidone iodine was effective at neutralizing the hemagglutinin and sialidase components of the influenza virus.
- The effects of iodine were complementary to the modest effect of the antiviral drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu).
- Importantly, the study found no evidence of resistance to the anti-infective properties of iodine, suggesting it could be a valuable first-line defense against avian influenza.
Practical Applications:
Given these promising preclinical findings, individuals at risk of exposure to avian influenza, such as farm workers and those with backyard poultry, may benefit from using a simple iodine-based nasal spray and gargle as a preventive measure. This low-cost, readily available intervention could provide an important layer of protection against this emerging threat.
Iodine has a long history of safe and effective use as an antimicrobial agent, and its ability to target multiple viral components suggests it may be a valuable tool in the fight against avian influenza. As the Bio-Pharmaceutical Complex continues to hype the threat, individuals should consider incorporating iodine-based nasal sprays and gargles into their personal protective strategies.
What is Povidone-iodine?
Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic used for skin disinfection before and after surgery. It may be used both to disinfect the hands of healthcare providers and the skin of the person they are caring for. [1][2]
Povidone-iodine is a chemical complex of povidone (polyvinylpyrrolidone, PVP) and triiodide (I−3). It is synthesized by mixing the PVP polymer with iodine (I2), allowing the two to react. [1][2]
The free iodine, slowly liberated from the povidone-iodine complex in solution, kills cells through iodination of lipids and oxidation of cytoplasmic and membrane compounds. This agent exhibits a broad range of microbiocidal activity against bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. [1][3]
Povidone-iodine may be applied to the skin as a liquid or a powder. It is available over the counter and sold under brand names like Betadine. Side effects can include skin irritation and swelling. It is not recommended for use in women less than 32 weeks pregnant or those with thyroid problems or taking lithium. [4]
Risks of Povidone-iodine Nasal Spray
Based on search results, the known risks of using Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) as a nasal spray include:
1. Iodine allergy or sensitivity: PVP-I nasal spray should be avoided in patients with iodine allergy or those undergoing radioiodine treatment or with thyroid dysfunction.[7]
2. Ciliotoxicity: High concentrations of PVP-I (5% and 10%) have been shown to be ciliotoxic, meaning they can damage the cilia (tiny hair-like structures) in the nasal and respiratory passages.[7][10] However, lower concentrations around 0.4-0.6% have not demonstrated this effect.[7][9]
3. Irritation: PVP-I nasal spray can cause redness and very bad irritation where it is used.[9]
4. Iodine toxicity: Prolonged use (weeks to months) of topical 10% PVP-I solution may increase the risk of iodine toxicity, though this is rare.[10]
5. Allergic reactions: There is a rare risk of allergic reactions like rash, hives, and difficulty breathing with the use of PVP-I nasal spray.[9]
In summary, the main risks are related to iodine allergy, potential ciliotoxicity at higher concentrations, local irritation, and very rare iodine toxicity with prolonged use. The search results indicate that lower concentrations around 0.4-0.6% PVP-I appear to be safe for short-term nasal use.[7][9]
We have not tried it so this is not an endorsement, but the product Betadine Antiseptic Medicated Gargle, Povidone-Iodine 0.5% fits into this range.
Disclaimer
Nothing on this page is other than what it is. Consult a qualified doctor before starting any name medical procedure.
Citations
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Povidone-iodine
[2] https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB06812
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7951395/
[4] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20355-povidone-iodine-topical-formulations
[5] https://betadine.com
[6] https://santossinuscenter.com/uncategorized/home-povidine-iodine-nasal-spray-covid-19-infections/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8026810/
[8] https://www.drugs.com/cdi/betadine-spray.html
[9] https://www.dovepress.com/a-pilot-study-of-04-povidone-iodine-nasal-spray-to-eradicate-sars-cov–peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-IDR
[10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7161480/