What is Chlorhexidine gluconate?
Chlorhexidine is a mouthwash that kills bacteria.Oral rinses containing chlorhexidine are used to treat gum disease, which is characterised by swelling, redness, and bleeding. A dentist will usually prescribe chlorhexidine.Oral rinses containing chlorhexidine gluconate are not suitable for all forms of gingivitis. Only use the medication to treat the condition that your dentist prescribed. This medication should not be shared with anyone else, even if that person has the same symptoms as you.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of chlorhexidine.
Side effects of Chlorhexidine gluconate
Chlorhexidine can cause an allergic reaction. It is rare, but it may be fatal. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms: severe skin rash; difficulty breathing; cold sweats; feeling light-headed
Chlorhexidine gluconate may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- White patches or sores on the lips or inside of your mouth;
- Mouth ulcers
- The swelling of the salivary glands beneath your jaw
Some of the common side effects associated with chlorhexidine include:
- Mouth irritation;
- Tooth staining
- Dry Mouth
- Unusual or unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Reduced taste sensation
There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects; for FDA reporting purposes call them directly on 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Chlorhexidine can cause an allergic reaction, which is rare but life-threatening. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience: hives or severe skin rash; wheezing and difficulty breathing; cold sweats; lightheadedness; swelling of the face, lips, throat, tongue, or mouth.This medication should not be given to children or teens without the doctor's approval. Chlorhexidine can cause chemical burns or severe irritation in children.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to chlorhexidine, do not take this medication.You may need to use special treatment if you have periodontal diseases while using chlorhexidine.This medication should not be given to children or teens without the doctor's approval. This medication can cause chemical burns or severe irritation in children. Anyone younger than 18 is not allowed to use chlorhexidine gluconate.This medicine is not known to harm an unborn child. Notify your doctor immediately if you are expecting or planning on becoming pregnant.The effects of chlorhexidine on nursing babies are not yet known. Inform your doctor if breastfeeding is taking place.
How to take Chlorhexidine gluconate?
Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for longer than prescribed. Use chlorhexidine only as directed.After brushing your teeth, rinse your mouth twice a day with chlorhexidine.Use the measuring cup that comes with your medication to measure the dose. Swish your medicine around in your mouth at least for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Do not swallow mouthwash.Add no water to the rinse. After using chlorhexidine, do not rinse with water or any other mouthwash.After using the medication, you may experience an unpleasant taste. After using the medication, do not rinse your mouth. If you rinse away the medication, it will lose its effectiveness.Do not stop taking the medication before it is completely cleared. You may see some improvement in your symptoms before the gingivitis has completely resolved. Chlorhexidine is not effective in treating viral or fungal infections such as canker sores or oral thrush.Preventive dental care requires that you visit your dentist every six months.Store chlorhexidine at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Brush your teeth before taking the missed dose. If your next dose is due soon, forget any missed dosage. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care if your child has swallowed more than 4 ounces.Overdose symptoms of chlorhexidine include nausea, stomach pain, or the appearance of being drunk. Overdose symptoms include nausea or stomach pain.
What should be avoided?
Chlorhexidine can stain your teeth, dentures, and tooth restorations. It may also stain your tongue or the inside of your mouth. Speak to your dentist about how you can remove stains from these surfaces. If the false teeth have scratches on their surface, it may be more difficult to remove stains.After using this medication, avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth.Use only the mouthwash prescribed by your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you may take orally, or even inject, are unlikely to have any effect on the chlorhexidine oral rinse. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you take, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
