Indications

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.

Therapeutic

Class Chlorhexidine & Chloroxylenol preparations.

Pharmacology

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 extra microbial complexes. The bacteriostatic effect is achieved at low concentrations which causes an alteration of bacterial cell osmotic equilibrium and leakage of potassium and phosphorus.

Dosage & Administration

Adults- 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 patient 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 the preparation of the skin prior to invasive procedures such as venepuncture.

Elderly and children: There are no special dosing regimes for children and the elderly. Interaction Chlorhexidine is incompatible with soaps and other anionic agents. Hypochlorite bleaches may cause brown stains to develop in fabrics that have previously been in contact with chlorhexidine solutions.

Contraindications

Chlorhexidine Gluconate is contraindicated for persons who have previously shown a hypersensitivity reaction to chlorhexidine. However, such reactions are extremely rare. Side Effects Irritative skin reactions can occasionally occur. Generalized allergic reactions have also been reported but are extremely rare Pregnancy & Lactation No untoward effects are known.

Precautions & Warnings

Avoid contact with the brain, meninges, middle ear, or sensitive tissues and eyes. Do not inject or use in body cavities. Overdose Effects Symptoms: Pharyngeal edema, 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.

Storage Conditions

Do not store above 25° C.