Chlorhexidine: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use

What drug Chlorhexidine?

What is Chlorhexidine for?

Chlorhexidine is a drug that functions as an antiseptic to fight infection caused by bacteria. Chlorhexidine is a drug that comes in various forms, in the form of topicals or ointments, solutions, and mouthwashes.

Topical chlorhexidine is applied directly to the area of ​​the skin to be cleaned to prevent bacterial infections caused by medical surgery, injection marks, or external wounds. Meanwhile, chlorhexidine in solution form is used in inflammation of the mouth and throat. This drug is classified as an antiseptic and skin disinfectant class drug for the preparation of wounds and inflammation in the mouth.

How is Chlorhexidine used?

Always follow the rules that have been given by your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Use according to the instructions for use on the product label, or according to the doctor's instructions. Do not use this medication in larger amounts and doses for a longer period than recommended.

Don't drink it. Topical chlorhexidine or ointment only to be applied to the skin.

Rinse skin thoroughly before applying topical chlorhexidine. Apply the drug directly to the problem area. It is prohibited to use this drug to treat deep wounds, lacerations, or open wounds.

Chlorhexidine is a drug that is also available in soap form. Apply medicinal soap directly to the problem area, then wash and rinse the remaining medicine with clean water. Avoid using on large areas of skin.

Chlorhexidine is a drug that is produced in a sterile state, but not in its contents. It is very possible that there is bacterial contamination in the product packaging that can cause infection. To avoid this, do this:

• Use the applicator provided in the package to apply the medicine.
• If not provided, use a cotton swab or cotton ball
• Do not touch the edge of the mouth of the medicine bottle with your fingers or apply it directly to your skin.
• Do not dilute the drug with water or other foreign solutions
• Discard the applicator (cotton swab, cloth, or cotton) after use. Do not use for further applications.

Inform your doctor if symptoms do not improve or get worse.

How is Chlorhexidine stored?

This medication is best stored at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Chlorhexidine dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the dose of Chlorhexidine for adults?

• The usual dose for adults with gingivitis

Use 15 mL of Chlorhexidine 2 times a day after brushing your teeth. Gargle for 30 seconds then discard.

• The usual dosage for adults with mucositis

Use 15 mL of Chlorhexidine 2 times a day after brushing your teeth. Gargle for 30 seconds then discard.

• The usual dosage for adults with periodontitis

Initial dose: 1 chip 2.5 inserted between the periodontal pocket (the space between the gum and the tooth created by plaque damaging the gums and connective tissue below the gum line) with a pocket depth of 5 mm or more, up to a maximum of 8 chips in one doctor visit.

Maintenance dose: Bag inspection is recommended every 3 months for bag depths of 5 mm or more

What is the dosage of Chlorhexidine for children?

• The usual dosage for children with gingivitis

It is not certain whether chlorhexidine gluconate is safe or effective in patients younger than 18 years. However, the use of chlorhexidine gluconate may be adapted for certain situations.

Use 15 mL of Chlorhexidine 2 times a day after brushing your teeth. Gargle for 30 seconds then discard.

• The usual dosage for children with mucositis

It has not been established whether chlorhexidine gluconate is safe or effective in patients younger than 18 years. However, the use of chlorhexidine gluconate may be adapted for certain situations.

Use 15 mL of Chlorhexidine twice a day after brushing your teeth. Gargle for 30 seconds then discard.

• The usual dosage for children with periodontitis

It is not certain whether chlorhexidine gluconate is safe or effective in patients younger than 18 years. However, the use of chlorhexidine gluconate may be adapted for certain situations.

Initial dose: 1 chip 2.5 inserted between the periodontal pocket (the space between the gum and the tooth created by plaque damaging the gums and connective tissue below the gum line) with a pocket depth of 5 mm or more, up to a maximum of 8 chips in one doctor visit.

Maintenance dose: Bag inspection is recommended every 3 months for bag depths of 5 mm or more.

In what dosage is Chlorhexidine available?

Chlorhexidine is a drug that is available in the following dosages:

• Solution, oral for mouth rinse: 0.12% content
• Liquid, topical: 0.5%, 2%, 4% content

Chlorhexidine side effects

What side effects can be experienced due to Chlorhexidine?

Chlorhexidine is a drug that can also cause several side effects, ranging from common to severe. Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the following signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using topical chlorhexidine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects, such as:

• Burning, itching or redness
• Blistered or peeling skin
• Swelling or severe skin irritation
• Severe allergy to treated skin

Not everyone experiences the following side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Chlorhexidine Drug Warnings and Cautions

What should be known before using Chlorhexidine?

It is forbidden to use chlorhexidine if you are allergic to chlorhexidine.

Before undergoing treatment, consult your doctor or pharmacist whether it is safe for you to use chlorhexidine if you have a food allergy, dyes, animals or drugs.

Be careful if you want to apply this medicine to children younger than 2 months of age. This medicine may cause acute irritation or burns in children under five.

Is Chlorhexidine safe for pregnant and lactating women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The following references the pregnancy risk categories according to the FDA:

A = Not at risk

B = No risk in several studies

C = May be risky

D = There is positive evidence of risk

X = Contraindicated

N = Unknown

Chlorhexidine Drug Interactions

What medicines may interact with Chlorhexidine?

Drug interactions can change the performance of your medications or increase the risk of serious side effects. Not all possible drug interactions are listed in this document. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription / non-prescription drugs and herbal products) and consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without your doctor's approval.

Can food or alcohol interact with Chlorhexidine?

Certain drugs should not be used with meals or when eating certain foods because drug interactions can occur. Consuming alcohol or tobacco with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur. Discuss your use of drugs with food, alcohol, or tobacco with your health care provider.

What health conditions may interact with Chlorhexidine?

Any other health conditions you have can affect the use of this drug. Always tell your doctor if you have other health problems, especially:

• Deep wounds or open wounds — some products are not recommended for use in either of these conditions. Use the product only according to a doctor's instructions

Chlorhexidine overdose

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (112) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.