Profend

Profend is a nasal decolonization swab containing a 10% w/w povidone-iodine (PVP-I) solution, equivalent to 1% available iodine. Developed by PDI (Professional Disposables International), it is used preoperatively to reduce the carriage of *Staphylococcus aureus* (including MRSA) and other pathogens in the nares, thereby lowering the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs). Unlike antibiotic treatments such as mupirocin, povidone-iodine acts rapidly—killing 99.7% of *S. aureus* in 60 seconds—and does not contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Its mechanism involves the release of free iodine, which acts as a powerful oxidant that disrupts microbial cell membranes and oxidizes essential proteins and nucleic acids, leading to rapid cell death. The product is designed for ease of use in clinical settings, typically administered within an hour of surgical incision.

Brand names

Profend

Other names

Povidone-iodine nasal swabsticknasal povidone-iodine