Betadine Allergy

Ask an Eye M.D. Answer Archive

Question:
 I am allergic to betadine and will be undergoing surgery soon. What is recommended to use in place of betadine as a surgical prep solution? 

Answer:
There are non-betadine soaps that can be used. Your surgeon will advise you. However, betadine is the best antiseptic for this purpose. It is important to make sure that the allergy is severe. For example, some people have a mild skin reaction to betadine—that in itself should not deter the use this very powerful antiseptic during surgery.

Answered by: George Williams, MD

Categories: Eye Surgery

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