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.

Disinfection of clean and intact skin, pre-operative surgical hand disinfection, prior to aseptic procedure or after handling contaminated materials

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

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

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

No untoward effects are known

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.

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.

Do not store above 25° C

HexyClore 50 ml: Each plastic bottle contains 50 ml solution. HexyClore 250 ml: Each plastic bottle contains 250 ml solution.