Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic and disinfectant. It is used as cleanser for skin wounds or burns and general skin cleansing.
Apply Chlorhexidine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Chlorhexidine is available as cream, irrigation solution or liquid cleanser.
If you are using the cream, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Clean and dry affected area before application.
- Rub Chlorhexidine gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
- Replace the cap of the tube.
If you are using the irrigation solution, follow these steps:
- Remove the old dressing.
- Pad around the wound with towels or padding to absorb the irrigation solution.
- Pour the solution on the wound using the appropriate pressure.
- Pat dry any intact skin and cover open areas with sterile gauze or a sterile towel.
- Redress the wound.
If you are using the liquid cleanser for general skin cleansing, follow these steps:
- Wet hands with water.
- Dispense about 5 mL of Chlorhexidine skin cleanser into cupped hand and wash vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
If you are using the liquid cleanser for skin wound cleansing, follow these steps:
- Thoroughly rinse the area with water.
- Apply the minimum amount to cover the wound area and wash gently.
- Rinse again thoroughly.
Avoid direct contact of Chlorhexidine with your eyes and body cavities (e.g. mouth, vagina, inner ear). Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyesight.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection.
Chlorhexidine must be used regularly within the given medication timeframe for it to be effective. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
Do not use more than what is instructed by the doctor to make up for the missed dose.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use this medicine if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen face) to Chlorhexidine.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Chlorhexidine may cause discolouration of skin, hair, and fabrics.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Chlorhexidine liquid cleanser or irrigation solution to an infant. Infants may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Chlorhexidine may cause any of the following side effects: skin rash, itching, redness and blisters.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- swollen mouth or eyes
- difficulty of breathing
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor if you are using any other creams, ointments or other medicines on the affected area.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
