Chlorhexidine Gluconate

Chlorhexidine Gluconate is a antiseptic and disinfectant medicine available in Bangladesh under many brand names. Below are its uses, dosage, side effects and precautions — and all brands with their current prices.

• Antiseptic cleansing of skin and hands, depending on the formulation.
• Reduction of dental plaque and gingivitis when used as an oral rinse as directed.
• Oral hygiene support when normal brushing is difficult, if recommended by a dentist or doctor.
• Disinfection/irrigation in dental procedures such as root canal treatment, by trained dental professionals using appropriate products.

Use Chlorhexidine Gluconate exactly as directed on the label or by a doctor, dentist, or pharmacist, because strength and dosing differ between cream, gel, mouth wash, gargle, hand rub, skin solution, and dental solution. For oral products, the usual practice is to rinse or gargle for the instructed time and spit out; do not swallow, and avoid eating, drinking, or rinsing immediately afterward unless advised. For skin or hand products, apply enough to wet the area and allow it to dry; do not use on deep wounds, large areas, eyes, ears, or inside the body unless specifically prescribed. Follow the prescriber’s instructions for duration and frequency.

• Temporary burning, stinging, irritation, dryness, or redness of the skin or mouth.
• Altered taste, numbness or soreness of the tongue or mouth.
• Brown staining of teeth, tongue, fillings, or dentures with prolonged oral use; increased tartar may occur.
• Peeling or swelling of oral tissues in some users.
• Allergic contact dermatitis or rash.
• Rare but serious allergic reactions, including wheezing, facial swelling, severe dizziness, or anaphylaxis; seek urgent medical help.
• Serious eye injury or ear damage may occur if inappropriate formulations contact the eyes, middle ear, or inner ear.

People with a previous allergy to chlorhexidine or antiseptic products should avoid it unless a healthcare professional confirms it is safe. Use extra care in children, on sensitive or broken skin, on large body areas, and around the eyes, ears, mouth, and genital area. Oral preparations should not be swallowed and are not a substitute for dental treatment if there is pain, swelling, fever, or persistent bleeding. Use under a registered doctor's or pharmacist's guidance, especially if symptoms persist, worsen, or the product is needed for repeated or prolonged use.

• Toothpastes and some mouth products containing anionic detergents such as sodium lauryl sulfate may reduce the effect of chlorhexidine; rinse well after brushing and wait before using the mouth wash if advised.
• Soaps and anionic cleansing agents can reduce chlorhexidine activity on skin; follow the product instructions for cleaning and application.
• Do not mix chlorhexidine with other antiseptics, disinfectants, or chemicals unless directed, as incompatibility or irritation may occur.
• Some skin solutions or hand rubs may contain alcohol and are flammable; keep away from flames, smoking, and heat until completely dry.

• Known hypersensitivity or previous serious allergic reaction to chlorhexidine or any ingredient of the product.
• Use in the eyes, middle ear, inner ear, brain, meninges, or other internal body cavities unless a specialist uses a specifically appropriate product.
• Use of oral rinse in patients who cannot reliably spit it out, unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.

When used on the skin or as an oral rinse and not swallowed, chlorhexidine has very low systemic absorption and is generally considered low risk in pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed. Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should still use it only when needed and according to professional advice. Avoid applying it to the nipple or breast area before feeding; if used there on medical advice, wash the area thoroughly before breastfeeding.

Store at room temperature, tightly closed, and away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze unless the label allows it. Alcohol-containing hand rubs or solutions should be kept away from fire, sparks, and smoking materials.