IODOFORM

By : Alexa Joy C. Inguillo

◦ (also known as triiodomethane and carbon
triiodide) is the organoiodine compound with
the formula CHI3.
◦ It is occasionally used as a disinfectant.
◦ belongs to the family of organic halogen
compounds.
◦ Chemical Name: Triiodomethane
◦ Molecular Formula: CHI3
◦ Structural Formula:

◦ Molecular Weight: 393.732 g/mol

◦ Color: Pale, light yellow powder, opaque crystals or YELLOW HEXAGONAL PRISMS OR NEEDLES
FROM ACETONE
◦ Odor: Saffron-like (disagreeable odor)
◦ Taste: Sweetish taste
Application :
The compound finds small-scale use as a disinfectant. Around the beginning of the 20th century, it was
used in medicine as a healing and antiseptic dressing for wounds and sores, although this use is now
superseded by superior antiseptics. It is the active ingredient in many ear powders for dogs and cats, along
with zinc oxide and propanoic acid, which are used to prevent infection and facilitate removal of ear hair.
Metabolism:
◦ It is chemically reactive in free-radical reactions.
◦ It is soluble in fatty acids and decomposes releasing iodine in nascent state (96,7% of iodine) when in
contact with secretions or endodontic infections.

◦ It is expected to be oxidized to iodine

Storage:
◦ Store in a cool place in airtight containers. Protect from light.
◦ Avoid contact with ALKALI METALS (such as MERCURIC OXIDE, SILVER NITRATE, and
LITHIUM)
◦ Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from HEAT as Iodoform
decomposes violently above 400oF (204oC).
Disease if overdose:
◦ Systemic intoxication and visual disturbances resulted from absorption of excessive amount of iodoform
applied to wounds or abscesses or from ingestion of large quantities but not from application to the eye.
◦ Poisoning is often due to absorption through wound when iodoform dressings are used , it may cause
dermatitis. Systemic effects including vomiting and all degrees of cerebral depression or excitation
including delirium, hallucinations, coma and death. Very rapid pulse is characteristic , with or without
slight fever.
◦ The fatal dose of iodoform is estimated to be 2g.
Clinical effects:
◦ It can affect you when breathed in and by passing through your skin.
◦ Contact can irritate the skin and eyes.
◦ Breathing Iodoform can irritate the nose and throat.
◦ Exposure to high levels can affect the nervous system causing confusion, irritability, headache,
hallucinations and/or poor muscle coordination.
Treatment:
◦ ORAL EXPOSURE
1. Gastric Lavage
2. Activated Charcoal
3. Hypotension

◦ INHALATION EXPOSURE
1. Inhalation

◦ EYE EXPOSURE
1. Decontamination

◦ DERMAL EXPOSURE
1. Wash the exposed area twice with soap and water