Iodoquinol
Iodoquinol is an antiprotozoal medication used topically in gynecological practice to treat certain vaginal infections caused by protozoa. It has been applied as a vaginal cream or tablets for conditions such as trichomoniasis when used in combination therapy. Due to availability and safety concerns, its use has declined in many countries in favor of alternative treatments.
Topical antiprotozoal agent used for gynecological protozoal infections, particularly vaginal trichomoniasis.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- G01AC01
- RxNorm
- 3435
- Generic
- Iodoquinol
- Class
- atc-g01
- Brands
- Alcortin A, Quinja, Vytone, Dermazene, Alcortin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical, oral
- Forms
- gel, cream, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
11 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid application to breast area
do not apply to breast area before breastfeeding
monitor infant for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
infantsreduced dose and duration
use with extreme caution in infants under 2 years
close medical supervision required
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
childrenuse lowest effective dose
use with caution in children under 12 years
regular pediatric follow-up
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyno specific adjustment needed
use with caution due to potential increased skin sensitivity
monitor for skin irritation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mildno adjustment needed
standard dosing for topical application
standard monitoring
renal_impairment
moderate to severeuse with caution
monitor renal function during extended use
periodic renal function assessment
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateuse with caution
standard topical dosing with monitoring
monitor liver function with extended use
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severeuse with caution
use only if benefits outweigh risks
close hepatic function monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Classification as topical anti-infective agent
Common uses
Therapeutic applications for topical administration
Route of administration
Method of drug delivery
FDA approval status
Regulatory classification for dispensing
Topical treatment of vaginal infections caused by protozoa, most notably Trichomonas vaginalis. May be used as part of combination therapy for trichomoniasis. Has also been used for other vaginal parasitic infections.
Iodoquinol is a halogenated hydroxyquinoline with antiprotozoal activity. It works by interfering with protozoal DNA synthesis and metabolic processes, helping to eliminate the infectious organisms causing vaginal infections.
This medication has limited availability in many countries due to safety concerns including reports of optic neuritis and neurological effects with prolonged systemic use. Topical vaginal application generally results in minimal systemic absorption. Always complete the full course of treatment as prescribed and inform your healthcare provider of any allergies or existing medical conditions before use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy