• Basic Info
• Top Questions
• Clinical Info

What is the most important information I should know about chlorhexidine topical?

Do not take this medication my mouth. It is intended for topical application on the skin. Do not use other topical products on the skin after using chlorhexidine topical unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

What is chlorhexidine topical?

Chlorhexidine topical is an antiseptic. Chlorhexidine topical destroys germs on the skin.

Chlorhexidine topical is used to clean the skin before surgery to reduce the risk of infection. Chlorhexidine topical may also be used to treat acne.

Chlorhexidine topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

What should I discuss with my health are provider before using chlorhexidine topical?

Before using chlorhexidine topical, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, especially skin problems or allergies. You may not be able to use chlorhexidine topical or you may require special monitoring.

Do not use chlorhexidine topical without first talking to your doctor if you pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Do not use chlorhexidine topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use chlorhexidine topical?

Use chlorhexidine topical exactly as directed by your healthcare provider or as directed on the package. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Apply chlorhexidine topical to the skin as directed. You may be directed to rinse the skin after application of chlorhexidine topical.

Do not take this medication my mouth. It is intended for topical application on the skin. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. Store chlorhexidine topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not use a double dose of this product.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if chlorhexidine topical is ingested.

Symptoms of a chlorhexidine topical overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while using chlorhexidine topical?

Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. Do not use other topical products on the skin after using chlorhexidine topical unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

What are the possible side effects of chlorhexidine topical?

If you experience a rare but serious allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; hives; or a rash), stop using chlorhexidine topical and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately.

Occasionally, mild skin irritation may occur. Continue to use chlorhexidine topical and talk to your doctor if you experience skin irritation.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect chlorhexidine topical?

Do not use other topical products on the skin after using chlorhexidine topical unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with chlorhexidine topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using other topical prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about chlorhexidine topical written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Chlorhexidine topical is available over-the-counter under several brand names. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

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.