Povidone iodine ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to help prevent infection during surgery or other medical procedures performed on or around your eyes.

Povidone iodine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

A healthcare professional will apply this medicine while you are being prepared for eye surgery or medical procedure.

Povidone iodine ophthalmic is applied to your eyelids, eyebrows, and the skin around your eyes. A healthcare professional will apply povidone iodine ophthalmic while you are being prepared for your surgery or medical procedure.

For a short time after surgery, this medicine may leave a slight yellow stain on the whites of your eyes or on the skin where this medicine was applied. Ask your healthcare provider if you have concerns about iodine staining in your eyes.

Povidone iodine stains can usually be removed from the skin with soap and water. Ask your healthcare provider for instructions about how to remove the stains.

You should not be treated with povidone iodine ophthalmic if you are allergic to iodine.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had a thyroid disorder.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Povidone iodine ophthalmic is used as a single dose in a clinical setting and does not have a daily dosing schedule.

Since povidone iodine ophthalmic is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of povidone iodine ophthalmic may include:

• mild irritation where the medicine was applied;

• temporary yellow discoloration of the whites of your eyes; or

• temporary yellow discoloration on the skin where povidone iodine ophthalmic was applied.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.