What is Chlorhexidine? Uses, Benefits, and Safety Information

What is Chlorhexidine (CHG)?
Chlorhexidine, most commonly found as Chlorhexidine Gluconate, is a powerful and broad-spectrum antiseptic and disinfectant. It is widely used in healthcare settings and consumer products for its effective ability to kill germs. It works by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria, leading to their death, and has a unique residual effect that provides continued protection.

Key Characteristics
Broad-Spectrum Antibacterial: Effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Residual Effect: Its most valued trait is its persistent activity. It binds to the skin and mucous membranes, forming a protective layer that continues to kill microbes for several hours after application.

Fast-Acting: Begins working quickly upon contact.

Generally Safe: Well-tolerated by the skin and oral mucosa at recommended concentrations, with a low risk of irritation or allergic reactions.

Common Concentrations and Uses
Different concentrations are formulated for specific purposes:

Low Concentration (0.05% – 0.12%):

Antiseptic Mouthwash/Rinse: Used to treat gingivitis, mouth ulcers, and prevent infections after dental procedures. Effectively reduces oral bacteria.

Some toothpastes and oral sprays.

Medium Concentration (0.5% – 4.0%):

Hand Disinfection: Used by healthcare professionals for surgical scrubbing.

Skin Prepping: The most common use is for disinfecting a patient’s skin before injections, blood draws, surgeries, and for

inserting IVs or catheters.

Wound Cleansing: Used to irrigate and clean minor wounds, scrapes, and burns to prevent infection (use higher concentrations with caution on open wounds).

High Concentration (4%):

Surface Disinfection: Occasionally used to disinfect non-porous surfaces in clinical environments.

Important Precautions and Side Effects
While highly effective, users should be aware of these key points:

Tooth Staining: Long-term use of chlorhexidine mouthwash can cause brown staining on teeth, dental restorations, and the tongue. This is usually reversible with professional dental cleaning.

Taste Alteration: It may cause a temporary change or loss of taste.

Avoid Sensitive Areas: EXTREME CAUTION: Chlorhexidine must NEVER enter the eyes, ears (if the eardrum is perforated), or the meninges (the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). It can cause severe irritation and permanent damage. If contact with eyes occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention.

Inactivated by Soap: Common soap and anionic surfactants (like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate – SLS found in many toothpastes) can neutralize chlorhexidine’s effect. For optimal skin disinfection, wash and dry hands thoroughly with plain soap before applying chlorhexidine. For oral use, rinse at least 30 minutes after brushing your teeth.

Not Effective Against All Pathogens: It is primarily bactericidal (kills bacteria) but is not effective against viruses (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, influenza), fungi, or tuberculosis bacilli.

Follow Instructions: Always use as directed by a healthcare professional, especially for wound care, to avoid potential interference with healing.