Formulation of Povidone Iodine 7.5% antiseptic foam and evaluation of its antimicrobial effect

Iodine and Iodophore have been longley used as antiseptic to prevent infections with good efficacy and safety. The aim of this study was to formulate new povidone iodine 7.5% antiseptic foam and evaluate its antibacterial effect. In this experimental study, in the first step, the effects of the foaming agents including Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Nonoxynol 9 were studied and then the effect of pH and different buffer formulations including citrate, phosphate citrate and phosphate buffers on the organoleptic properties and the amount of the free iodine were evaluated according to the USP 32 criteria. The effects of the emollient such as glycerin and glycerox HE were evaluated and the accelerated stability test was taken for optimum formulations. Finally, the antimicrobial effect of the proper formulation was evaluated. SLES 3% in Citrate buffer with the pH 3.5 showed the best results for the quality of the foam and glycerin 1% was selected as proper emollient agent in presence of poloxamer 407 as foam stabilizer. The stability test was done on the superior formula and it proved its antiseptic properties. The foam formulation contained povidone iodine 7.5%, SLES 3%, Poloxamer (407) 2%, citrate buffer and glycerin 1% has passed stability as well as and antimicrobial effects tests; therefore, it can be used as a new antiseptic product and an appropriate detergent to prevent spreading of infectious disease.