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Use of iodine in pharmacy

Iodine has a wide range of uses in pharmaceuticals and is known as a key element in the production of medicines and medical materials. One of its most important uses is as an antiseptic, especially in surgical and wound care products, such as tincture of iodine, which is used to clean the skin and prevent bacterial and fungal infections. Radioactive iodine also plays an important therapeutic role in the treatment of thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism and goiter, targeting the overactive tissues of the thyroid gland. In nuclear medicine, iodine isotopes such as iodine-131 are used to diagnose and treat some cancers, especially thyroid cancer. In addition, iodine compounds are used as a contrast agent in medical imaging such as CT scans to increase the clarity of images. In the treatment of urinary tract infections, some iodine-containing drugs also have antiseptic properties. Finally, iodine supplements and iodized salt are widely prescribed to compensate for iodine deficiency in the body and prevent thyroid problems. Iodine has an important place in modern pharmacy, with its antimicrobial, antithyroid, and radioactive properties.

Applications of Iodine in Pharmaceuticals

Iodine has numerous applications in pharmaceuticals and is one of the most important elements in the production of medicines and medical substances. Here are some key uses of iodine in the pharmaceutical industry:

Disinfectants

Iodine is one of the best disinfectants used in surgeries and wound treatment. Iodine tincture (iodine dissolved in alcohol) is commonly used as a general antiseptic for cleaning the skin and preventing bacterial and fungal infections. Additionally, iodine papule is used to treat diseases such as bronchitis and gout.

Antithyroid Medications

Iodine plays a critical role in treating thyroid disorders. Conditions like hyperthyroidism and goiter are often treated using radioactive iodine. This radioactive substance directly targets the thyroid gland and destroys overactive tissues, thereby reducing thyroid activity.

Radioisotopes

Radioactive iodine isotopes (such as Iodine-131) are widely used in nuclear medicine for diagnosing and treating diseases. These isotopes are employed for medical imaging and cancer treatment, especially thyroid cancer. In this method, radioactive iodine selectively binds to thyroid cells and destroys cancerous tissues.

Medical Diagnostics

Iodine, combined with other compounds, is used as a contrast agent in radiology and computed tomography (CT scans). These compounds enhance the images of internal organs, helping physicians achieve better diagnostic accuracy.

Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections

Iodine is used in some antiseptic medications to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) and inflammations. Sodium iodide acts as a disinfectant in drugs prescribed for these conditions.

Production of Iodine Supplements

Iodine is an essential nutrient, especially for the production of thyroid hormones. In many countries, iodized salt is used as a preventive measure to combat iodine deficiency in diets. Iodine supplements are also prescribed when additional iodine intake is necessary.

Due to its antimicrobial and radioactive properties, iodine has extensive applications in pharmaceuticals and is widely used in the treatment and diagnosis of many diseases.

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