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Iodosorb Coupon - Iodosorb 40g of 0.9% tube of gel

Iodosorb

cadexomer iodine
Used for Wound Care
Used for Wound Care

Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) is a gel that's applied to the skin to treat wet ulcers and wounds. This medication can kill bacteria, absorb exudate (pus), and clean out your wound so it can heal faster. Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) doesn't need a prescription from your provider, and can be bought over the counter.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Yen Nguyen, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on July 18, 2022
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageContraindicationsImagesPricesMedicare
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What is Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine)?

What is Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) used for?

  • Skin wounds or ulcers

How Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) works

Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) is an antimicrobial gel that can be used to treat skin wounds and ulcers. It contains tiny beads that can absorb fluids, exudate (pus), slough (dead skin), and debris (waste or dead tissues). As the beads absorb this fluid and waste, they trigger the release of iodine, which works to kill bacteria and clean your wound.

When does Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsIodosorb
Drug ClassAnti-infective
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
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What are the side effects of Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Warm and tingling sensation at the site

Other Side Effects

When do Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Pain at application site
Itching

Source: Prescribing Information

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine)

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Pros

Promotes wound healing

Color change on the gel (white) can make it easier to know when it's time to change out the medication

Can kill bacteria on the wound

Available over the counter

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Cons

Not for people who are sensitive to iodine

Might not be safe for people with thyroid problems

Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Brand only, so might be expensive

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine)

pharmacist

  • Speak to your provider before using Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) if you have any thyroid or kidney problems to determine if this medication is safe for you.

    • The Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) gel will change color from dark brown to white as the iodine is used up from absorbing the pus. This will let you know that it's time to change your dressing and apply a new layer of medication.

      • Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) shouldn't stick to your wound, but your dressing can stick if your wound is drying out or a crust forms over the area. If your dressing is sticking to your wound, wet the area with water and gently take off the dressing.

        • If there are small pieces of Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) left in your wound after removing your dressing, don't worry. This isn't harmful and it'll naturally break down over time.

          faqs

          Frequently asked questions about Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine)

          Does Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) work for any type of wound?
          No. Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) isn't used to clean dry wounds. It's only meant to be used for wet ulcers and wounds, such as venous stasis ulcers (open sores on lower legs), pressure sores (bed sores), diabetic foot ulcers, and infected trauma and surgery wounds. Speak with your provider if you are unsure of what type of wound you have to determine if Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) is right for you.
          Will Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) stick to my wound and dressing?
          Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) is non-adhesive, which means it won't stick to your dressing or your wound. This will make it easier for you to change your medication without causing more pain.
          How long does it take for Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) to heal my wound?
          Every wound is different and will take different amounts of time to heal. Studies showed that when Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) is used for venous leg ulcers with compression, people experienced complete healing in as soon as 4 weeks. For slow healing ulcers, you can use Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) for up to 3 months at a time. If you need Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) for a longer period of time, use a non-iodine medication for at least one week before using Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) again.
          Is it painful to apply Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) to the wound?
          When you apply Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine), you might feel a warm and stinging sensation. The medication will often relieve pain on your wound or ulcer while it works to kill bacteria and clean the area.
          Will Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) interact with my medications?
          The iodine in Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) can interfere with certain medications, including lithium and sulfonylureas). Let your provider know all of your current medications before you start using Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine).
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          What are the risks and warnings for Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine)?

          Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

          risk-warning

          Iodine sensitivity

          People who are sensitive or might be sensitive to iodine shouldn't use Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine). Speak to your provider for a different medication to treat your wound that doesn't contain iodine.

          risk-warning

          Thyroid problems

          Iodine is important for your thyroid to function properly. Since Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) contains iodine, it can affect your thyroid hormones. If you have a thyroid condition (e.g., Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Grave's disease, or non-toxic nodular goiter), it's not recommended to use Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine). Speak to your provider if you have any problems with your thyroid before using this medication to make sure it's safe for you.

          risk-warning

          Harm to babies

          Iodine, a main ingredient in Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine), can cause harm to your unborn baby if you use it during pregnancy. This medication can also pass into your breast milk and harm your baby. Don't use Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, and speak to your provider for a safer alternative.

          dosage

          Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) dosage forms

          Typical dosing for Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine)

          How often you use Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) will depend on the size of your wound and when the gel changes color.

          Apply the gel onto a gauze and apply light pressure to fix it onto your wound or ulcer. Maximum usage is 50 g of gel per application, and 150 g per week.

          contraindications-icon

          Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) contraindications

          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) will not be safe for you to take.
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          Iodosorb (cadexomer iodine) images

          brown - Iodosorb 0.9% Topical Gel
          This medicine is Brown Tube Of Gel.brown - Iodosorb 0.9% Topical Gel

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