Chlorhexidine Gluconate [1%]

It is used as an antiseptic cream and lubricant by healthcare professionals when examining women during pregnancy or for gynecological problems.

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.

Chlorhexidine Gluconate cream is used by healthcare professionals during a physical examination. Some will be spread onto the gloved hand of the examiner and some will be applied around the birth canal and perineum of the patient. This cream is for the use on the skin or vagina only.

Advice of healthcare professional should be sought if using or have recently used any other drugs. Hypochlorite bleaches may cause brown stains to develop in fabrics which have previously been in contact with preparations containing Chlorhexidine.

Chlorhexidine Gluconate cream is contraindicated for patients who are hypersensitive to Chlorhexidine.

Allergic reactions like sudden wheeziness, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the eyelids, face or lips, rash or itching (specially affecting the whole body) may occur.

Chlorhexidine Gluconate cream is safe during pregnancy and lactation.

Avoid application to the ears and eyes, and any deep cuts involving the head or spine.Wash out with water if necessary. If mixed with soap or detergents its effectiveness may reduce. If swallowed treat symptomatically and with gastric lavage using milk, raw egg, gelatin or mild soap.

Other antibacterial preparation

Keep in a cool and dry place protected from light. Shake the bottle well before use.