Chlorhexidine is a medication to treat and prevent inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). This medicine can also be used to clean the skin in the wound area, the area to be injected or operated on, and to clean the surgeon's hands before performing surgery.
Chlorhexidine belongs to the class of antiseptic drugs. This drug works by killing and preventing the growth of bacteria.
Chlorhexidine trademark: Mediscrub, Minocep
What's that Chlorhexidine
| group | Free medicine |
| Category | antiseptic |
| Benefit | Prevent and treat gingivitis, as well as to sterilize the skin from germs |
| Used by | Mature |
| Chlorhexidine for pregnant and lactating women | Category B:Animal studies have not shown any risk to the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. It is not known whether chlorhexidine can be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without telling your doctor. |
| Drug form | Mouthwash, external medicine liquid |
Precautions Before Using Chlorhexidine
There are several things you need to pay attention to before using chlorhexidine, namely:
- Do not use chlorhexidine if you are allergic to this drug.
- Tell your doctor if you are wearing dentures, dental veneers, or fillings.
- Tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have periodontitis.
- Please be careful when using external liquid chlorhexidine if you have deep or open skin wounds.
- Be careful when using chlorhexidine, do not get this drug in the eyes, into the ears, or on other sensitive body parts. Immediately flush with running water if this medicine gets into the eyes.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction or overdose after using chlorhexidine.
Dosage and Instructions for Use of Chlorhexidine
The following are common doses of chlorhexidine based on the intended use and form of the drug:
Purpose: Maintain oral hygiene and treat gingivitis
- Shape: Mouthwash
Use a mouthwash containing 0.2% chlorhexidine with a dose of 10 ml, gargle for 1 minute 2 times a day.
Purpose: Antiseptic and disinfection of the skin
- Shape: External medicine liquid
Use an adequate amount on the skin you want to clean.
Method Using Chlorhexidine Correctly
Follow your doctor's advice and read the information on the chlorhexidine package before starting to use it.
For the use of mouthwash, be sure to do it after brushing your teeth. Gargle for 30 seconds or as directed by your doctor. Do not swallow chlorhexidine mouthwash or mix the medication with water before use. Discard chlorhexidine immediately after gargling.
Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours after taking chlorhexidine to prevent the drug's effects from diminishing or causing a strange taste in the mouth.
For external medicine liquid, its use will be given directly by a doctor. Follow your doctor's instructions when prescribed this liquid for home use.
Store chlorhexidine at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Keep medicine out of reach of children.
Interaction of Chlorhexidine with Other Drugs
In general, chlorhexidine does not cause certain interactions when used with other drugs. However, it is advisable to tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, including supplements and herbal products, so as not to pose a risk of unwanted drug interactions.
Chlorhexidine Side Effects and Dangers
Some of the side effects that may arise after using chlorhexidine mouthwash are:
- dry mouth
- Irritation of the mouth and throat
- Taste change
- The amount of tartar (hardened plaque) on the teeth increases
- The color of the medicine imprints on the tongue or teeth
Check with your doctor if you experience any of the side effects mentioned above. See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to any medicine after using chlorhexidine.