Dosing & Uses
Dosing Form & Strengths
liquid/foam
- 0.75%
- 2%
- 4%
lotion
- 1%
swab
- 3.15%
swabsticks
- 2%
- 3.15%
solution
- 2%
towelette
- 0.5% plus isopropyl alcohol 70%/5mL
sponge
- 2%
- 4%
Cleanser & Antiseptic
Indicated as a surgical hand scrub, wound cleanser, and preoperative skin cleanser
Surgical scrub: Scrub for 3 min, rinse and wash for another 3 min
Preoperative skin cleanser: Apply to surgical site and swab for 2 minutes, allow to dry, repeat once
Wound cleaning: Rinse area with water, apply to wound area and wash gently, and then rinse thoroughly
Hand sanitizer: Dispense in palm of one hand, dip fingetips of opposite hand into solution and work it under nails; spread remainder covering all surfaces of above elbow and over hand; repeat on other hand, allow to dry before using gloves
Hand wash: Wash for 15 seconds and rinse
Hand rinse: Rub 15 seconds and rinse
Safety and efficacy not established
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (1)
- allogeneic cultured keratinocytes and fibroblasts
chlorhexidine topical decreases effects of allogeneic cultured keratinocytes and fibroblasts by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Chlorhexidine topical antiseptic has been shown to be toxic to keratinocytes and human dermal fibroblasts.
Monitor Closely (0)
Minor (0)
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Irritation
Sensitization
Allergic reactions (particularly in genital areas)
Dyspnea
Nasal congestion
Facial edema
Postmarketing Reports
Allergic reaction (wheezing/difficulty breathing, shock, facial swelling, hives, rash)
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Cautions
External use only
Avoid contact with eyes, ears, and mucous membranes; immediately rinse with cold water if contact occurs
If product inadvertently comes in contact with eyes, immediately flush with cool water for 15 minutes and contact a physician
If this product is inadvertently swallowed, contact a physician and/or poison control center immediately
Serious allergic reactions reported, including anaphylaxis that can occur within minutes presenting as wheezing, difficulty breathing, facial edema, hives, severe rash, or hypotension and shock
Do not use for deep wound cleansing; avoid if wound involves more than superficial skin layers
Hearing loss reported when instilled in middle ear through perforated tympanic membrane
Use with care in premature infants or infants aged <2 months; potential for irritation or chemical burns
Avoid applying over large surfaces
Not for presurgery preparation of face or head
Product may cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms may include, wheezing/ difficulty breathing, shock, facial swelling, hives, and rash; if allergic reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away
High alcohol containing lotions are flammable; keep away from fire or flames
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category: B
Lactation: Unknown whether distributed in breast milk, LactMed states no toxicity observed in breastfed infants when topically applied
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Polybiguanide antiseptic and antimicrobial drug with bactericidal activity; at high concentrations of chlorhexidine the cytoplasmic contents of the bacterial cell precipitate and result in cell death
Pharmacokinetics
Duration of antibacterial protection: 6 hr
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paroex Oral Rinse - | 0.12 % liquid |  | |
| chlorhexidine gluconate mouth and throat - | 0.12 % liquid |  | |
| chlorhexidine gluconate mouth and throat - | 0.12 % liquid |  | |
| chlorhexidine gluconate mouth and throat - | 0.12 % liquid |  | |
| Hibiclens topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Hibiclens topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Hibiclens topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Hibiclens topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Hibiclens topical - | 4 % liquid | | |
| Hibiclens topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Hibiclens topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Hibiclens topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Betasept Surgical Scrub topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Betasept Surgical Scrub topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Betasept Surgical Scrub topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Betasept Surgical Scrub topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Betasept Surgical Scrub topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| Peridex mucous membrane - | 0.12 % liquid |  | |
| Peridex mucous membrane - | 0.12 % liquid |  | |
| Periogard mucous membrane - | 0.12 % liquid |  | |
| Periogard mucous membrane - | 0.12 % liquid |  | |
| chlorhexidine gluconate topical - | 2 % miscellaneous |  | |
| chlorhexidine gluconate topical - | 4 % liquid |  | |
| chlorhexidine gluconate topical - | 4 % liquid |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
chlorhexidine gluconate mouth and throat
CHLORHEXIDINE GLUCONATE RINSE - ORAL
(khlor-HEX-i-deen GLOO-koe-nate)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Peridex, Periogard
USES: This medication is used along with regular tooth brushing/flossing to treat gingivitis, a gum disease that causes red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums. Chlorhexidine belongs to a class of drugs known as antimicrobials. It works by decreasing the amount of bacteria in the mouth, helping to reduce swelling and redness of the gums and bleeding when you brush.
HOW TO USE: Rinse your mouth with the solution after brushing your teeth, usually twice daily (after breakfast and at bedtime) or as directed by your doctor.Measure 1/2 ounce (15 milliliters) of the solution using the supplied measuring cup. Swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, and then spit it out.Do not swallow the solution or mix it with any other substance. After using chlorhexidine, wait at least 30 minutes before rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash, brushing your teeth, eating, or drinking.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. It may take up to 6 weeks to see the full benefits of using this medication.Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
SIDE EFFECTS: Tooth/tongue staining, increased tartar, mouth/throat irritation, dry mouth, and change in taste of food/drinks may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.To decrease staining of teeth and mouth surfaces, brush with toothpaste 3 times daily, brushing more on the stained areas. Use of a "tartar control" toothpaste and electric toothbrush may be more effective. See your dentist at least every 6 months for tooth cleaning/tartar removal. Staining from this medication that may occur on dental work (such as crowns or veneers) usually can only be removed by a dentist/hygienist. To decrease the effect on how food tastes, eat first, followed by tooth brushing and then chlorhexidine rinse.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor or dentist has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: mouth or skin rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using chlorhexidine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: dental crowns, veneers, or fillings (especially if on the front teeth and if made of porcelain).Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: The effects of some drugs can change if you take other drugs or herbal products at the same time. This can increase your risk for serious side effects or may cause your medications not to work correctly. These drug interactions are possible, but do not always occur. Your doctor or pharmacist can often prevent or manage interactions by changing how you use your medications or by close monitoring.To help your doctor or pharmacist give you the best care, be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) before starting treatment with this product. While using this product, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any other medicines you are using without your doctor's approval.Chlorhexidine rinse is not likely to cause drug interactions, even if accidentally swallowed. However, be careful not to swallow this medication because doing so may increase side effects.Keep a list of all the products you use. Share the list with your doctor and pharmacist to reduce your risk for serious medication problems.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.Keep all medical/dental appointments so that your progress can be followed. Consult your doctor/dentist for more details.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it is close to a mealtime or near the time for the next dose. In those cases, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Refer to storage information printed on the bottle for the exact temperature range. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Store the solution only in the original brown bottle provided by your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Information last revised December 2021. Copyright(c) 2022 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
