Can I give Betadine gargle to my 10-year-old kid who has throat pain?

Dear Reader,

It’s very good that you’re being cautious. Betadine Gargle is generally not recommended for young children, especially those under 12 years of age, unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.

Here’s why:

• Betadine Gargle contains povidone-iodine, which can be too strong for a child’s mouth and throat.
• There’s also a risk of swallowing the solution while gargling, which isn’t safe for children because it may irritate the stomach or affect thyroid function if iodine is absorbed.
• Many children find it difficult to gargle properly without accidentally swallowing.

For a 10-year-old, it’s safer to try milder alternatives, such as:

• Warm saltwater gargles (½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, used 2–3 times a day).
• Warm fluids, such as honey with warm water (for children over 1 year), soups, or herbal teas, to soothe the throat.
• Keeping the throat moist by sipping water regularly.

If the sore throat persists for more than 2–3 days, or if your child has a fever, difficulty swallowing, or swollen tonsils, you should consult a pediatrician. The doctor may prescribe a child-safe antiseptic mouthwash or syrup instead.

In short, avoid giving Betadine Gargle to your 10-year-old without a doctor’s approval, and use gentle home remedies or pediatric alternatives for throat pain relief.

Wishing you good health.