side effects include skin irritation. if used on large wounds, kidney problems, high blood sodium, and metabolic acidosis may occur. it is not recommended in people who are less than 32 weeks pregnant or are taking lithium. frequent use is not recommended in people with thyroid problems. povidone-iodine is a chemical complex of povidone, hydrogen iodide, and elemental iodine. it contains from 9% to 12% available iodine. it works by releasing iodine which results in the death of a range of microorganisms.