CHLORHEXIDINE 5% solution

Therapeutic action

• Antiseptic

Indications

• Antisepsis of minor and superficial wounds and burns

Forms and strengths

• 5% concentrated solution of chlorhexidine gluconate, corresponding to 2.8% chlorhexidine, to be diluted before use

Preparation

• Use as a 0.05% aqueous solution:

For one litre: 10 ml of 5% concentrated solution + 990 ml of clear water, boiled a few minutes and cooled

Dosage

• Apply diluted solution to minor and superficial wounds and burns.

Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

• Do not use undiluted solution.
• Do not bring into contact with body cavities, eyes (risk of corneal damage), brain and meninges, middle ear (risk of deafness if ear drum is perforated).
• Do not use with soap or a different type of antiseptic, e.g. povidone iodine (incompatibility).
• May cause: skin and mucous membrane irritation; rarely allergic reactions.
• Avoid applications to mucous membranes, especially to genital mucous membranes.
• Do not use cork stoppers (decreases the antibacterial activity of chlorhexidine).

Storage