Chlorhexidine Gluconate Topical solution

What is this medicine?

CHLORHEXIDINE (klor HEX i deen) is used as a skin wound cleanser and a general skin cleanser. This medicine is also used as a surgical hand scrub and to cleanse the skin before surgery to help prevent infections.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• any skin rashes or problems
• an unusual or allergic reaction to chlorhexidine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the label or those given to you by your doctor or health care professional. Keep out of eyes, ears and mouth. This medicine should not be used as a preoperative skin preparation of the face or head.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be used for children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply; this medicine is not for regular use.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

This medicine may cause severe allergic reactions. Notify a health care professional right away if you think you are having an allergic reaction.

Do not take this medicine by mouth. Avoid contact with your ears and eyes. If contact with the eyes occur, rinse the eyes well with plenty of cool tap water.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or other health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• cough

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or other health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• increased sensitivity to the sun
• skin irritation

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Store away from direct light and heat. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.