Chlorhexidine

Common use

Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic that fights bacteria. Chlorhexidine topical (for the skin) is used to clean the skin to prevent infection that may be caused by surgery, injection, or skin injury.

Dosage and direction

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take by mouth. Chlorhexidine topical is for use only on the skin. Rinse the skin before applying chlorhexidine topical. Apply only enough medicine to cover the area you are treating. Do not apply this medicine to deep cuts, scrapes, or open skin wounds. Do not dilute the medicine with water or other liquid. Use the applicator (pad, swab, or other dressing) only once. Throw away after one use.

Precautions

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use chlorhexidine topical if you have any allergies to food, dyes, animals, or medicines.
It is not known whether chlorhexidine topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether chlorhexidine topical passes into breast milk or if it could affect the nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

Contraindications

You should not use chlorhexidine topical if you are allergic to it. Chlorhexidine can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction that may be life-threatening. Get emergency medical help if you have: hives, severe skin rash; wheezing, difficult breathing; cold sweats, severe dizziness; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Possible side effect

Chlorhexidine topical may cause serious side effects. Stop using chlorhexidine topical and call your doctor at once if you have: severe burning, itching, or redness; blistering or peeling; swelling or severe skin rash; or any other severe irritation of treated skin.

Drug interaction

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied chlorhexidine. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Missed dose

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose

An overdose of chlorhexidine topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Keep away from children and pets.