Indications
Chlorhexidine Gluconate Mouthwash is an antimicrobial solution which inhibits the formation of dental plaque. It is indicated as an aid in the treatment and prevention of gingivitis and in the maintenance of oral hygiene, particularly in situations where tooth brushing cannot be adequately employed (e.g. following oral surgery, in mentally or physically handicapped patients). It may also be used in a post-peridontal surgery or treatment regimen to promote gingival healing.
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 extramicrobial complexes. Bacteriostatic effect is achieved at low concentrations which causes an alteration of bacterial cell osmotic equilibrium and leakage of potassium and phosphorus.
Dosage And Administration
Adults: Thoroughly rinse the mouth for about one minute with 10 ml twice daily. In the dental surgery the patient should be instructed to rinse the mouth for one minute prior to treatment. Chlorhexidine Gluconate is incompatible with anionic agents which are usually present in conventional dentifrices. These should therefore be used before Chlorhexidine Gluconate (rinsing the mouth between applications) or at a different time of day.
For the treatment of gingivitis a course of about one month is advisable although some variation in response is to be expected. In the case of aphthous ulceration and oral candidal infections treatment should be continued for 48 hours after clinical resolution. For the treatment of dental stomatitis the dentures should be cleansed and soaked in Chlorhexidine Gluconate mouthwash for fifteen minutes twice daily.
Children and the Elderly: The normal adult dose is appropriate for elderly patients and children of 12 years and over unless otherwise recommended by the dentist or the physician. Children under 12 years of age should not use the product unless recommended by a healthcare professional. Route of administration: External (oral) use.
Interaction
Soaps, other anionic agents, borates, bicarbonates, carbonates, chlorides, citrates, nitrates, phosphates & sulfates.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity.
Side Effects
Skin sensitivity; mucosal irritation; reversible brown staining of the teeth; tongue discoloration and burning sensation; transient taste disturbance; parotid gland swelling.
Pregnancy And Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.
Precautions And Warnings
Avoid contact with middle ear or sensitive tissues and eyes. Do not inject or use in body cavities.Avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth just after using this medication
Therapeutic Class
Other antibacterial preparation
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.