Antiseptic / Thyroid agent
Brand of Iodine; Potassium iodide
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Iodine combined with potassium iodide is an antiseptic solution that kills germs (bacteria, fungi, and viruses) on the skin by destroying their cell structures, and can also be taken by mouth to protect the thyroid gland or treat iodine deficiency.
Denatures bacterial and fungal proteins through oxidative damage, exerting broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity on skin surfaces; when ingested, concentrates in the thyroid gland to synthesize thyroid hormones and competitively blocks radioactive iodine uptake during nuclear emergencies.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
For skin use (like Nino Alcoholic Iodine): apply a thin layer directly to the affected area using clean cotton wool 1-3 times daily. For oral use (thyroid protection or iodine deficiency): follow your doctor's specific instructions carefully as the dose varies widely depending on what it is being used for. Do not swallow iodine solutions meant for skin use.
If you are using it on your skin, simply apply it when you remember. If you are taking it by mouth on a schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next dose. Never double up.
Only buy from reputable pharmacies — products like Nino Alcoholic Iodine from roadside sellers may be diluted or expired. Never swallow iodine solutions that are meant for skin use only, as this can cause serious poisoning. If a wound does not improve after a few days of using iodine, see a doctor rather than continuing to self-treat.
Do not use iodine skin solutions together with mercury-based antiseptics (like mercurochrome) as they can react and damage your skin. If taking oral potassium iodide, it can interact with blood pressure medicines called ACE inhibitors and cause dangerously high potassium levels. Lithium (used for mental health conditions) combined with iodine can increase the risk of thyroid problems.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Iodine; with your other drugs?
Iodine on the skin for minor use is generally okay, but oral potassium iodide should only be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding under a doctor's supervision as too much iodine can affect the baby's thyroid gland.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it near windows or in cars. Keep the bottle tightly closed as iodine can evaporate. Always keep out of reach of children as swallowing skin-use iodine is dangerous.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Genuine packaging for Nino Alcoholic Iodine
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NAFDAC Number
04-1206
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