CHLORHEXIDINE

Topical disinfectant and anti-infective that kills microorganisms and prevents infection of wounds

Dosage Forms

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Cutaneous solution

2%

Solution

0.05%

Solution (as digluconate)

7.1%

Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash

0.20%

Chlorhexidine gluconate solution

20% (equivalent to chlorhexidine 4%)

Cream

5%

Uses

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  • Cleansing and prevention of infection of wounds, animal bites, and skin infections
  • General and pre-operative hand and skin disinfection
  • Disinfection of instruments
  • Oral infections
  • Cleaning of umbilical cord stump of a newborn

Dose and Duration

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Wounds (deep and extensive), animal bites, skin infections
Apply 0.05% solution directly to affected area after cleaning and allowing the wound to dry
General and pre-operative hand and skin disinfection
Rub 0.05% solution on hands and skin
Cleaning of umbilical cord stump of newborn
Neonate:apply 7.1% solution or 4% gel to the stump im mediately after birth and daily during the first week of life
Oral infections
Rinse/gargle with mouthwash every 8 hours until symptoms disappear
Disinfection of instruments
Soak for at least 30 minutes in 0.05% solution, then rinse thoroughly with sterile water or 0.9% sodium chloride

Preparation

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  • Dilute 5% concentrated chlorhexidine solution with distilled water to make required strength
  • To make 1 litre of 0.05% solution, add 10 ml of 5% concentrated solution + 990 ml of clear freshly boiled and cooled water

Side Effects

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  • Skin irritation

Interactions

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  • Soap (cancelled effect)
  • Hydrogen peroxide (cancelled effect)
  • Povidone-iodine (cancelled effect)

Patient Instructions

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  • In case of contact with eyes, wash with plenty of water
  • Do not apply to breasts if breast-feeding
  • Wash hands with soap and water before applying to the umbilical cord. Do not put anything else on the cord

Pregnancy

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  • Can be used

Breastfeeding

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  • Can be used

Storage

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  • Use diluted solution within 1 week

⚠️ Caution

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  • Not for use in body cavities (the organs inside the body)
  • When used for umbilical cord care, it should be applied alone; cord detachment may be prolonged for more 1–2 days