For the disinfection of clean and intact skin. For pre-operative surgical hand disinfection, hand disinfection on the ward prior to aseptic procedures or after handling contaminated materials. For disinfection of the patients’ skin prior to surgery or other invasive procedures

Chlorhexidine is a very potent cationic chemoprophylactic agent that has a broad-spectrum of activity against gm+ve and gm-ve bacteria. It is both bacteriostatic and bactericidal depending on its concentration. The bactericidal effect, which is achieved at high concentrations, is due to the binding of the cationic to negatively charged bacterial cell walls and extramicrobial complexes. Bacteriostatic effect is achieved at low concentrations which causes an alteration of bacterial cell osmotic equilibrium and leakage of potassium and phosphorus.

Pre-operative surgical hand disinfection: Dispense 5 ml of solution and spread thoroughly over both hands and forearms, rubbing vigorously. When dry apply a further 5 ml and repeat the procedure.

Antiseptic hand disinfection on the ward: Dispense 3 ml of solution and spread thoroughly over the hands and wrists rubbing vigorously until dry.

Disinfection of patients skin: Prior to surgery apply the solution to a sterile swab and rub vigorously over the operation site for a minimum of 2 minutes. Chlorhexidine Gluconate is also used for preparation of the skin prior to invasive procedures such as venepuncture.

Chlorhexidine is incompatible with soaps and other anionic agents. Hypochlorite bleaches may cause brown stains to develop in fabrics which have previously been in contact with chlorhexidine solutions.

Chlorhexidine Gluconate is contraindicated for persons who have previously shown a hypersensitivity reaction to chlorhexidine. However, such reactions are extremely rare.

Irritative skin reactions can occasionally occur. Generalised allergic reactions have also been reported but are extremely rare

No untoward effects are known

Avoid contact with brain, meninges, middle ear or sensitive tissues and eyes. Do not inject or use in body cavities.

Symptoms: Pharyngeal oedema, necrotic lesions of the esophagus and elevated serum aminotransferase concentrations.

Management: Gastric lavage using milk, raw egg, gelatin or mild soap, or employ appropriate supportive measures.

Chlorhexidine & Chloroxylenol preparations

Do not store above 25° C.