Iodine has been used for a long time in the form of tincture of iodine or Lugol’s solution for the topical antiseptic treatment of minor wounds. Despite its high efficiency, limits were imposed on a wider application, because these two formulations initiated a number of side-effects, i.e. gastric irritation, allergy, etc.

In 1950s, Povidone-Iodine, a complex of Iodine with Povidone was first reported in literature & forms the basis for the PVP – Iodine range of topical antiseptics offered by BASF.  PVP-Iodine 30/06 is the standard grade, preferred for preparations for application to the intact skin. PVP-Iodine 30/06 M 10 is a micronized grade, intended for use in suppositories and powder sprays.