Appendix B
Page 3
For many years, Polar pure has been trying to get FDA approval for iodine crystals in
alcohol. Their failure to receive approval to market this new product has no relation to
the effectiveness or safety. At this time, iodine in alcohol is a viable option that allows
for much smaller doses due to higher solubility of iodine in alcohol.
Iodine Tablets
The tablets used by the U.S. military and sold in the United States for water
disinfection contain tetraglycine hydroperiodide, which is 40% I
2
and 20% iodide.
{Chang, 1953 #46;Morris, 1953 #130}
Tetraglycine hydroperiodide was originally
developed and chosen as a preferred technique by the military for individual field use
because of its broad-spectrum disinfection effect, ease of handling, rapid dissolution,
stability, and acceptable taste.
{J
URANEK
,
1998
#261;O'C
ONNOR
,
1970
#138;P
OWERS
,
1993
#281;R
OGERS
,
1979
#164}
Each tablet releases 8 mg/L of elemental iodine into water. An acidic buffer provides a
pH of 6.5, which supports better cysticidal than virucidal capacity but should be adequate
for both. Tablets have the advantages of easy handling and no danger of staining or
corroding if spilled. They are stable for 4 to 5 years under sealed storage conditions and
for 2 weeks with frequent opening under field conditions, but they lose 30% of the active
iodine if bottles are left open for 4 days in high heat or humidity.
Products
Potable Aqua (Wisconsin Pharmaceuticals)
50 tablets $5; with P.A. Plus Neutralizing tablets, $8
