Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Iodosorb Ointment 10g (pack of 2)

Iodosorb Ointment 10g (pack of 2)

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Treats chronic infected wounds including leg ulcers and pressure sores
  • ✔️ Cadexomer iodine releases slowly for sustained antimicrobial action
  • ✔️ Absorbs wound exudate to create an optimal healing environment
  • ✔️ Colour-change indicator shows exactly when dressing needs changing
  • ✔️ Pack of two 10g tubes for ongoing home wound management

Price Checker

Regular price £27.98
Sale price £27.98
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is Iodosorb Ointment and How Does It Treat Wounds?

 

Iodosorb ointment is a topical wound care treatment containing cadexomer iodine 0.9% w/w — a slow-release form of iodine embedded within a biodegradable starch polymer. It is used to manage chronic, infected, or heavily exuding wounds where bacterial contamination is slowing the healing process. If you have been dealing with a wound that simply refuses to heal, this product may be exactly what your wound care routine is missing. You can find it alongside other specialist treatments in our skin care collection.

Chronic wounds — including venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, and infected traumatic wounds — are a significant clinical challenge. The NHS recognises that wound infection is one of the primary barriers to healing, and antimicrobial wound care products play an important role in managing this. Iodosorb ointment is licensed in the UK for exactly this purpose, providing both antimicrobial action and exudate management in a single application.

 

How Does Iodosorb Ointment Work on Infected Wounds?

 

The mechanism behind Iodosorb is genuinely clever. Rather than simply applying iodine directly to a wound — which can be damaging to tissue — cadexomer iodine releases iodine gradually as it absorbs wound fluid. This controlled release means the wound bed receives a sustained antimicrobial effect without the cytotoxic concentrations associated with older iodine preparations like povidone-iodine.

  • The cadexomer bead matrix absorbs exudate, slough, and debris from the wound surface.
  • As the beads swell with fluid, iodine is released slowly and continuously into the wound bed.
  • Iodine disrupts bacterial cell membranes and metabolic processes, reducing the microbial load.
  • The moist wound environment created supports granulation tissue formation and re-epithelialisation.
  • The ointment turns white or grey when saturated, giving you a clear visual cue that it is time to change the dressing.

This combination of debridement, moisture balance, and antimicrobial activity makes it particularly useful for wounds that are stuck in the inflammatory phase of healing.

 

Who Is Iodosorb Ointment Suitable For?

 

This product is intended for adults and children aged 12 and over. It is particularly well-suited to patients managing chronic wounds in a community or home setting, often under the guidance of a GP, district nurse, or tissue viability specialist. That said, it is available over the counter, so you do not always need a prescription to access it.

Iodosorb ointment is appropriate for:

  • Venous leg ulcers with signs of infection or heavy exudate
  • Pressure ulcers (also called pressure sores or bedsores) in the inflammatory phase
  • Infected traumatic wounds such as lacerations or abrasions that are not healing as expected
  • Diabetic foot ulcers — though always under medical supervision in this case

It is not suitable for use on dry wounds, wounds with dry necrotic tissue (eschar), or in patients with thyroid disorders, iodine sensitivity, or those taking lithium. Always read the full product information before use.

 

How Does Iodosorb Ointment Compare to Other Wound Care Options?

 

Feature Iodosorb Ointment Povidone-Iodine (e.g. Betadine)
Active ingredient Cadexomer iodine 0.9% Povidone-iodine 10%
Iodine release Slow, sustained release Immediate, high concentration
Exudate management Yes — absorbs wound fluid No
Tissue toxicity risk Lower at therapeutic concentrations Higher with prolonged use
Suitable for chronic wounds Yes Limited — short-term use only

 

How Should You Store Iodosorb Ointment and Is It Clinically Appropriate for You?

 

Store Iodosorb ointment below 25°C, away from direct heat and sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use and store out of reach of children. Each 10g tube is single-patient use — do not share between patients to avoid cross-contamination. This pack of 2 gives you two 10g tubes, which is particularly useful for ongoing wound management where regular dressing changes are needed. If you are also managing other aspects of wound-related skin health, browse our creams and ointments collection for complementary products.

Before starting treatment, consider whether this product is right for your specific wound. Iodosorb ointment is not a first-aid product for minor cuts and grazes — it is designed for chronic or infected wounds. If you are unsure whether your wound qualifies, speak to your pharmacist or GP before applying.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Iodosorb Ointment 10g (Pack of 2) specifications
Treatment category Antimicrobial wound care
Mechanism of action Cadexomer iodine absorbs exudate and releases iodine slowly to reduce bacterial load
Effective for Chronic infected wounds, venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, infected traumatic wounds
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Cadexomer iodine 0.9% w/w
Pack size 2 x 10g tubes
Strength 0.9% w/w cadexomer iodine
UK classification General Sale / Pharmacy (P)
Drug class Antimicrobial wound care agent
Preparation Ointment
Route of administration Topical (applied directly to wound surface)

Specifications of Iodosorb Ointment 10g (Pack of 2)

 

What Is Iodosorb Ointment and What Is It Used For?

 

Iodosorb ointment is a topical antimicrobial wound care product containing cadexomer iodine 0.9% w/w. It is used for the local treatment of chronic infected wounds, including venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, and infected traumatic wounds. The NHS acknowledges that chronic wounds — particularly those with signs of infection such as increased exudate, odour, or surrounding erythema — require targeted antimicrobial intervention to break the cycle of inflammation and promote healing. Iodosorb ointment addresses this by simultaneously managing exudate and delivering sustained antimicrobial activity to the wound bed.

This product is not intended for minor cuts, grazes, or dry wounds. It is specifically formulated for wounds that are producing moderate to heavy exudate and showing signs of bacterial colonisation or infection. If you are managing a wound alongside other skin conditions, our first aid collection includes a range of complementary products for broader wound management needs.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Iodosorb Ointment?

 

Before applying Iodosorb ointment, it is essential to check whether it is appropriate for you. There are several important contraindications and precautions to be aware of.

Do not use Iodosorb ointment if you:

  • Are allergic to iodine or any ingredient in the product
  • Have a thyroid disorder (including hyperthyroidism or Hashimoto's thyroiditis)
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Have Duhring's disease (dermatitis herpetiformis)
  • Have a known sensitivity to cadexomer or starch-based polymers

Use with caution if you:

  • Have renal impairment — systemic iodine absorption may be increased
  • Are applying to a very large wound area — risk of significant systemic iodine absorption increases with wound surface area
  • Have a history of thyroid disease, even if currently well-controlled

Known drug interactions:

  • Lithium — iodine can potentiate the hypothyroid effect of lithium; concurrent use is not recommended
  • Thyroid medications — iodine may interfere with thyroid function tests and treatment
  • Other iodine-containing preparations — avoid concurrent use to prevent excessive systemic iodine load

 

How Should You Use Iodosorb Ointment?

 

Always follow the instructions provided with the product or as directed by your healthcare professional. The steps below reflect standard clinical guidance for applying cadexomer iodine ointment to a chronic wound.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the product or touching the wound.
  2. Gently cleanse the wound with an appropriate wound irrigation solution or sterile saline. Pat the surrounding skin dry.
  3. Apply Iodosorb ointment directly to the wound surface in a layer approximately 3mm thick. Do not apply to the surrounding intact skin.
  4. Cover the ointment with a suitable non-adherent secondary dressing to keep it in place and protect the wound.
  5. Secure the dressing with tape or a bandage as appropriate for the wound location.
  6. Monitor the dressing. When the ointment turns white or grey, it has reached its absorption capacity and should be changed.
  7. At each dressing change, gently irrigate the wound to remove residual ointment before reapplying.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Venous leg ulcer Adults (18+) 3mm layer to wound surface Every 2–3 days or when saturated
Pressure ulcer Adults (18+) 3mm layer to wound surface Every 2–3 days or when saturated
Infected traumatic wound Adults and children 12+ 3mm layer to wound surface Every 2–3 days or when saturated

Do not apply more than 150g of cadexomer iodine per week. Do not use on a wound area exceeding 10% of total body surface area.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Iodosorb Ointment?

 

Like all medicines, Iodosorb ointment can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are localised to the wound area and resolve once treatment is stopped.

Common side effects:

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation at the wound site on application
  • Localised erythema (redness) around the wound margins
  • Mild irritation of the periwound skin

Less common side effects:

  • Systemic iodine absorption — may affect thyroid function with prolonged use or large wound areas
  • Allergic contact dermatitis — if you develop a widespread rash, stop use immediately
  • Transient elevation of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels

If you notice any signs of a systemic reaction — such as swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash — stop using the product and seek urgent medical attention. For ongoing wound management support, you may also find useful products in our pain relief collection if wound-related discomfort is a concern.

 

How Should You Store Iodosorb Ointment?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep the tube tightly closed after each use
  • Store out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton
  • Do not share tubes between patients — each tube is for single-patient use only
  • Dispose of any unused product safely — ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines you no longer need

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Iodosorb Ointment online in the UK?

You can buy Iodosorb Ointment 10g (pack of 2) directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter wound care product. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door, making it a convenient option if you are managing a wound at home.

How does Iodosorb Ointment work on infected wounds?

Iodosorb Ointment contains cadexomer iodine, which works in two ways simultaneously. The cadexomer bead matrix absorbs wound exudate, slough, and bacteria from the wound surface, while slowly releasing iodine into the wound bed to kill bacteria and reduce infection. This dual action helps to create the right environment for the wound to begin healing properly.

How do I apply Iodosorb Ointment step by step?

Start by washing your hands and gently cleansing the wound with sterile saline or an appropriate wound irrigation solution. Apply a 3mm layer of Iodosorb ointment directly to the wound surface — not the surrounding skin — then cover with a non-adherent secondary dressing. Change the dressing when the ointment turns white or grey, which signals it has absorbed its capacity of fluid.

How often should I change the Iodosorb Ointment dressing?

Dressings should typically be changed every 2 to 3 days, but the most reliable indicator is the colour of the ointment — change it when it turns white or grey. In heavily exuding wounds, you may need to change it more frequently. Always irrigate the wound gently at each dressing change to remove any residual ointment before reapplying.

What are the side effects of Iodosorb Ointment?

The most common side effects are localised and include a transient stinging or burning sensation when the ointment is first applied, along with mild redness around the wound margins. Less commonly, prolonged use over large wound areas may lead to systemic iodine absorption, which can affect thyroid function. If you notice any unusual symptoms beyond the wound site, stop using the product and speak to your GP or pharmacist.

Who should not use Iodosorb Ointment?

Iodosorb Ointment is not suitable for people with a known allergy to iodine, those with thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or children under 12 years of age. It should also be avoided by anyone taking lithium, as iodine can enhance lithium's effect on the thyroid. Always check with your pharmacist or GP if you are unsure whether this product is right for you.

Can I use Iodosorb Ointment on a leg ulcer?

Yes — venous leg ulcers are one of the primary indications for iodosorb ointment, particularly when the ulcer is showing signs of infection such as increased exudate, odour, or surrounding redness. It is important to have your leg ulcer assessed by a healthcare professional before starting treatment, as the underlying cause (venous insufficiency, arterial disease, or mixed aetiology) will influence the overall management plan. You can find more information about leg ulcers on the NHS website.

How long can you use Iodosorb Ointment for?

Iodosorb Ointment should not be used continuously for more than 3 months. If your wound has not shown signs of improvement within this period, you should seek a review from your GP, district nurse, or a tissue viability specialist. Prolonged use beyond 3 months increases the risk of systemic iodine absorption and potential effects on thyroid function.

What are the alternatives to Iodosorb Ointment for wound care?

Alternatives include other cadexomer iodine formats such as Iodosorb dressing pads, silver-containing antimicrobial dressings (such as Aquacel Ag), or honey-based wound dressings like Medihoney. The best choice depends on your wound type, exudate level, and any contraindications you may have. Browse our creams and ointments collection or speak to your pharmacist for personalised guidance.

Is Iodosorb Ointment suitable for diabetic foot ulcers?

Iodosorb Ointment can be used on infected diabetic foot ulcers, but only under medical supervision. Diabetic foot ulcers are complex wounds that require specialist assessment to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment pathway. If you have diabetes and a foot wound, contact your GP or diabetes care team promptly rather than self-treating.

Can Iodosorb Ointment be used on pressure sores?

Yes, Iodosorb Ointment is indicated for pressure ulcers (pressure sores) that are in the inflammatory phase and producing exudate. It is not appropriate for dry, necrotic pressure ulcers covered with hard eschar. If you are caring for someone with a pressure ulcer, it is advisable to involve a district nurse or tissue viability nurse in the wound management plan.

Does Iodosorb Ointment interact with any medicines?

Yes — the most clinically significant interaction is with lithium, as iodine can enhance lithium's hypothyroid effect, making concurrent use inadvisable. Iodosorb should also be used with caution alongside thyroid medications and other iodine-containing preparations. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are taking before starting treatment with this product.

What is the maximum amount of Iodosorb Ointment I can use per week?

The maximum recommended dose is 150g of cadexomer iodine per week. Additionally, the product should not be applied to a wound area exceeding 10% of total body surface area. Exceeding these limits increases the risk of significant systemic iodine absorption, which may affect thyroid function and other body systems.

What is the latest research on cadexomer iodine for wound healing?

Clinical evidence supports the use of cadexomer iodine in the management of chronic infected wounds, with studies demonstrating reductions in bacterial load, wound area, and exudate levels compared to standard dressings. NICE and the BNF both recognise cadexomer iodine as an appropriate antimicrobial wound care option. Research continues to explore its role in biofilm disruption, which is a key factor in chronic wound chronicity. You can find further wound care resources in our first aid collection.

Is Iodosorb Ointment available on the NHS?

Iodosorb Ointment can be prescribed on the NHS for appropriate patients, and it is listed in the BNF as a cadexomer iodine preparation for wound management. It is also available to purchase over the counter without a prescription from registered pharmacies including Cured Pharmacy. Buying it directly online can be a convenient option if you are managing a wound at home between clinical appointments.

How Should You Use Iodosorb Ointment?

Iodosorb Ointment is applied directly to the surface of a chronic or infected wound. It is not suitable for minor cuts or dry wounds. Always wash your hands before and after handling the product, and ensure the wound area has been gently cleansed before application.

Follow these steps each time you apply the ointment:

What Is the Correct Dose of Iodosorb Ointment?

The amount of ointment used will depend on the size of the wound. The key principle is to apply a consistent 3mm layer across the entire wound surface. Do not apply more than 150g of cadexomer iodine per week, and do not treat a wound area exceeding 10% of total body surface area.

Use the table below as a guide to dosing by indication and age group:

When Is the Best Time to Use Iodosorb Ointment?

There is no fixed time of day for applying Iodosorb Ointment — the timing of each application is guided by the condition of the dressing rather than a set schedule. Change the dressing when the ointment turns white or grey, which indicates it has absorbed its capacity of wound exudate. In practice, this typically means every 2 to 3 days for most wound types.

If you are changing the dressing yourself at home, choose a time when you are not rushed and have all your supplies to hand — clean gauze, secondary dressing, tape, and saline for irrigation. Consistency in your dressing routine helps to maintain a stable wound environment and supports the healing process.

How Long Can You Use Iodosorb Ointment For?

Iodosorb Ointment should not be used continuously for more than 3 months. If your wound has not shown measurable improvement — such as a reduction in wound size, exudate, or signs of infection — within this period, arrange a review with your GP, district nurse, or tissue viability specialist. Continuing beyond 3 months without clinical review is not recommended due to the risk of cumulative systemic iodine absorption.

Once the wound shows signs of healing and infection has resolved, your healthcare professional may advise switching to a simpler, non-antimicrobial dressing to support the later stages of wound closure.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Iodosorb Ointment?

Most people who use Iodosorb Ointment tolerate it well, particularly when it is applied correctly to the wound surface only. However, some localised reactions at the application site are not uncommon, especially when treatment first begins.

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation on application
  • Mild redness (erythema) around the wound margins
  • Localised irritation of the periwound skin
  • Slight discomfort during dressing changes

These effects are usually short-lived and tend to settle within a few minutes of application. If stinging persists or worsens, contact your pharmacist or GP.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Iodosorb Ointment?

Less commonly, some patients may experience reactions that go beyond the wound site. These are more likely to occur with prolonged use, application to large wound areas, or in patients with pre-existing thyroid conditions.

  • Systemic iodine absorption — may cause changes in thyroid function, particularly with extended use
  • Transient elevation of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels
  • Allergic contact dermatitis — presenting as a spreading rash beyond the wound area
  • Skin maceration of the surrounding intact skin if ointment is applied too broadly

If you notice any of these effects, stop using the product and seek advice from your GP or pharmacist promptly.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Iodosorb Ointment?

Serious side effects are rare but can occur, particularly in patients who use the product outside of the recommended guidelines. The most clinically significant concern is significant systemic iodine absorption, which can suppress or disrupt thyroid function. This is most likely to occur when the product is applied to very large wound areas, used for longer than 3 months, or used in patients with pre-existing thyroid disease.

Signs of a serious allergic reaction — including facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or a widespread urticarial rash — require immediate medical attention. Stop using the product straight away and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you experience these symptoms.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Iodosorb Ointment?

For mild, localised side effects such as stinging or redness, you can usually continue treatment while monitoring the reaction. Ensure you are applying the ointment only to the wound surface and not to the surrounding skin, as this reduces the risk of irritation. If the reaction does not settle within a few days, seek advice from your pharmacist.

For any side effects that are spreading beyond the wound, affecting your general health, or causing significant distress, stop using the product immediately and contact your GP. You should also report suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Iodosorb Ointment Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. The most important interaction to be aware of is with lithium — iodine can enhance the hypothyroid effect of lithium, making concurrent use inadvisable. Iodosorb Ointment should also be used with caution alongside thyroid medications, as iodine may interfere with thyroid function tests and treatment efficacy. Avoid using other iodine-containing preparations at the same time to prevent an excessive systemic iodine load. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and topical products you are currently using before starting Iodosorb Ointment.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery