CHLORHEXIDINE 5%, concentrated solution

Last updated: January 2026

Therapeutic action

• Antiseptic

Indications

• Antisepsis of small or superficial wounds and burns

Forms and strengths

• 5% chlorhexidine (di)gluconate concentrated solution, to be diluted before use

Preparation

Prepare diluted solutions with clean water (water that has been boiled for a few minutes and cooled) or sterile water:

• For one litre of 0.5% solution: 100 ml of 5% solution + 900 ml of water
• For one litre of 0.05% solution: 10 ml of 5% solution + 990 ml of water

Use

• Apply diluted solution to small or superficial wounds and burns.

Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

• Do not use undiluted solution.
• Do not use with soap, creams and lotions or a different antiseptic (risk of incompatibility).
• Do not bring in contact with body cavities, brain and meninges, eyes (risk of eye damage), middle and inner ear (risk of deafness if ear drum is perforated). 
• Avoid use on mucous membranes, especially on genital mucous membranes.
• May cause: skin and mucous membrane irritation; rarely, hypersensitivity reactions.
• In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with water.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: no contra-indication

Storage