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Chlorhexidine has a very wide range of applications – it is used both in products aimed at sterilizing surfaces and surgical instruments, as well as in medicaments supporting the treatment of the skin and in tooth rinsing fluids.
Chlorhexidine – characteristics
Chlorhexidine is a broad-spectrum biocide effective against gram-positive, gram-negative bacteria and fungi. Chlorhexidine inactivates microorganisms with a broader spectrum than other antimicrobials (e.g .: antibiotics) and has a faster kill rate than other antimicrobials.
Depending on its concentration, it works both bacteriostatic (inhibits the growth of bacteria) and bactericidal (kills bacteria). Chlorhexidine kills by disrupting the cell membrane. When applied in vitro, Chlorhexidine can kill nearly 100% of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria within 30 seconds.
See: Six myths about antibiotics
Chlorhexidine – action
In topical application, chlorhexidine has been shown to have the unique ability to bind to proteins present in human tissues, such as skin and mucous membranes, with limited systemic or body absorption. Protein bound chlorhexidine is released slowly leading to prolonged activity. This phenomenon is known as substantivity and allows longer antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi.
In fact, it has been documented that the antimicrobial activity of chlorhexidine persists on the skin for at least 48 hours. In oral applications, chlorhexidine binds to oral tissue, oral mucosa, and teeth. It is then released over time to kill bacteria and fungi.
This helps to reduce the number of bacteria and prevents the build-up of plaque. Chlorhexidine has become the gold standard in dentistry for its ability to adhere to soft and hard tissues and maintain a strong, sustained release.
See also: You don’t remove tartar? Here are the possible consequences
Chlorhexidine – application
Chlorhexidine is used in the production of antiseptic products for cleaning utility spaces and hospitals – they disinfect sterilized surgical instruments and the operating field. Chlorhexidine products are also used to sanitize hands.
The medical use of chlorhexidine is diverse. I use it, inter alia, in:
- mouthwashes – they help to heal the symptoms of gingivitis in the form of swelling, redness and bleeding. Chlorhexidine mouthwash is often prescribed by dentists as an oral sanitizing therapy. In such cases, it is usually recommended to rinse your mouth for 30 seconds after brushing your teeth twice a day. Not every gingivitis can be treated with this type of mouthwash, so it is worth consulting your dentist if you experience symptoms.
- disinfecting creams and gels ran– your doctor may recommend the use of a chlorhexidine skin gel to disinfect abrasions, burns and skin irritations, and to disinfect small postoperative wounds. Such gels are dosed according to the enclosed leaflet, usually when changing the dressing,
- lozenges – chlorhexidine has a disinfecting effect when used. Chlorhexidine lozenges are used to treat pharyngitis and laryngitis, and can also support the treatment of gums and periodontitis. In some cases, the doctor recommends the use of lozenges for the treatment of chronic aphthae and mucosal damage leading to inflammation,
- drops in the nose and eyes – there are preparations for animals with chlorhexidine intended for use in the treatment of excessive watery eyes, conjunctivitis or rhinitis.
Chlorhexidine – contraindications and warnings
Products containing chlorhexidine are one of the common sources of allergic reactions manifested by difficulty breathing and a severe rash. Similar reactions after contact with such products require the rapid administration of antihistamines. Caution should be exercised when using products with chlorhexidine and avoid their contact with the eyes (e.g. when rinsing the mouth). If such contact occurs, gently flush the eye with tap water for 15 minutes.