When applied to the wound, cadexomer iodine based products absorb fluids, removing exudate, pus and debris. As they swell, iodine is slowly released killing micro-organisms and forming a protective gel over the wound surface. Unlike povidone iodine dressings which deposit their iodine immediately upon application, the sustained release of iodine from cadexomer iodine dressings does not cause cytotoxic effects.