chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse

Chlorhexidine gluconate is an antiseptic and antimicrobial oral rinse. It provides protection against a wide range of bacteria. It kills bacteria by binding to bacteria cell walls. The FDA approved chlorhexidine in August 1986.

What brand names are available for chlorhexidine gluconate?

Peridex, Periogard, Periochip

Is chlorhexidine gluconate available as a generic drug?

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Do I need a prescription for chlorhexidine gluconate?

Yes

Side effects of chlorhexidine gluconate include:

• staining of the teeth and other oral areas,
• dental tartar (dental calculus),
• altered sense of taste,
• toothache, and
• oral mucosal irritation.

Cases of parotid gland swelling and inflammation of the salivary glands (sialadenitis) have been reported.

Usually the mouth is rinsed with 15 ml (1 Tbsp) of undiluted chlorhexidine gluconate twice daily (morning and evening) for 30 seconds after brushing.

Individuals must expectorate the chlorhexidine gluconate after rinsing and must not rinse their mouths with water or mouthwashes, brush their teeth, or eat immediately after using chlorhexidine gluconate.

There are no significant drug interactions with chlorhexidine gluconate.

There are no adequate studies of safety and effectiveness of chlorhexidine gluconate in pregnant women.

It is not known whether chlorhexidine gluconate enters the breast milk; therefore, it is best to exercise caution before using it in nursing mothers.

What preparations of chlorhexidine gluconate are available?

Chlorhexidine gluconate is available in a 0.12% concentration as an oral rinse solution. Most commonly it is available in a 16 fluid ounce (473 ml) child-resistant dispensing container.

Other sizes that are available are 0.5 fluid ounce (15 ml) and 4 fluid ounce (118 ml) in a child-resistant dispensing container. A 64 fluid ounce (1893 ml) is available in a pump-dispensing container. It also is available as a 2.5 mg chip.

How should I keep chlorhexidine gluconate?

Chlorhexidine gluconate should be stored at room temperature between 15 C to 30 C F (59 F to 86 F).