chlorhexidine gluconate
Generic Name: chlorhexidine gluconate (klor HEX ih deen)
Brand Names: Peridex, Periogard
What is chlorhexidine gluconate?
Chlorhexidine gluconate is a germicidal mouthwash. It reduces bacteria in the mouth.
Chlorhexidine gluconate is used to treat gingivitis (swelling, redness, and bleeding of the gums).
Chlorhexidine gluconate is usually prescribed by a dentist.
Chlorhexidine gluconate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
What is the most important information I should know about chlorhexidine
gluconate?
Do not swallow the chlorhexidine gluconate rinse. Swish it around your mouth and spit it
out.
Use chlorhexidine gluconate after brushing and flossing your teeth.
Do not dilute the solution with water or any other liquid.
Avoid eating, drinking, and rinsing your mouth for at least 1 hour after using chlorhexidine
gluconate.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using
chlorhexidine gluconate?
Before using this medication, tell your dentist or doctor about any other medical conditions that
you have and about any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines that you are taking.
Chlorhexidine gluconate is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not likely
to harm an unborn baby. Do not use chlorhexidine gluconate without first talking to your dentist or
doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether chlorhexidine gluconate passes into breast milk. Do not use this
medication without first talking to your dentist or doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Chlorhexidine gluconate has not been approved for use in children under the age of 18
years.
How should I use chlorhexidine gluconate?
Use chlorhexidine gluconate exactly as directed by your dentist or doctor. If you do not
understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, dentist, doctor, or nurse to explain them to you.
Use chlorhexidine gluconate after--not before--regular brushing and flossing. If you use it
before, it will be washed away by brushing.
Measure out the appropriate amount of medication. Swish it around in your mouth for
about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Do not swallow the mouthwash.
Do not rinse your mouth after using this medication, even if it leaves an unpleasant taste. Also
avoid eating or drinking for at least 1 hour to allow the chlorhexidine to continue to work.
Use all of the chlorhexidine gluconate that has been prescribed for you, even if you begin to
feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Store chlorhexidine gluconate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose,
skip the dose you missed and use only your next regularly scheduled dose.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose is most likely to occur in a small child. Seek emergency medical attention or
call a poison control center if you suspect an overdose.
Symptoms of an overdose resemble those of alcohol intoxication (drunkenness). Nausea,
vomiting, slurred speech, a staggering walk, and drowsiness may develop.
What should I avoid while taking chlorhexidine gluconate?
Avoid eating or drinking for at least 1 hour after each dose.
While using chlorhexidine gluconate, avoid other mouthwashes or rinses unless otherwise
directed by your doctor.
Chlorhexidine gluconate side effects
No life-threatening side effects are expected. Stop using chlorhexidine gluconate and seek
emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your
throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take chlorhexidine
gluconate and talk to your dentist or doctor if you experience staining of the teeth or other surfaces in
your mouth, changes in taste, or minor mouth irritation. These side effects are temporary and usually go
away after treatment is discontinued.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side
effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect chlorhexidine gluconate?
No drug interactions are known. Avoid other mouthwashes or rinses while using chlorhexidine
gluconate.
Where can I get more information?
-
Your pharmacist or dentist has additional information about chlorhexidine gluconate written for
health professionals that you may read.
What does my medicine look like?
Chlorhexidine gluconate is available with a prescription under the brand names Peridex and
Periogard. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any
questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.
-
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your
medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
- Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. ('Multum') is
accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be
time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the
United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless
specifically indicated otherwise. Multum's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend
therapy. Multum's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners
in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for,
the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or
drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or
appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare
administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover
all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have
questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
Copyright 1996-2006 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.07. Revision Date: 7/16/04 4:50:00 PM.
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