cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate at a glance
Medicine class
Antiseptic and disinfectant.
Form
Clear, yellow, sterile aqueous irrigation solution for topical use.
Administration
Used undiluted externally. Do not swallow, inject or allow it into the eyes.
What is cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate used for?
Licensed uses of this irrigation solution include:
Cleansing and disinfecting wounds.
Antiseptic treatment of burns.
Swabbing in obstetrics, gynaecology and urology.
How does cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate work?
Chlorhexidine disrupts bacterial cell membranes, causing cell contents to leak. Cetrimide adds antibacterial and cleansing action that helps remove contamination.
How to take cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate
Apply topically rather than taking it by mouth. Use undiluted and only as directed by the responsible healthcare professional.
Check that the solution is clear and the container and seal are intact.
Keep away from the eyes, mouth, auditory canal and tissues around the brain or spinal cord.
Do not inject or swallow.
Prevent excess solution from pooling, particularly in skin folds or beneath a patient.
cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate side effects
Common or expected effects
- Rash or local skin irritation can occur; no common side effects are specifically established for this solution.
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe allergic reaction, including wheezing, breathing difficulty, swelling, low blood pressure, collapse or loss of consciousness.
- Eye-surface injury and potentially permanent visual impairment after eye exposure.
- Chemical skin burns in newborn babies, especially premature infants.
- Widespread rash or marked inflammation at the application site.
cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate in pregnancy
Chlorhexidine products are generally considered acceptable during pregnancy, and harmful effects have not been reported. Product information advises an individual benefit–risk assessment, so use this solution on a healthcare professional's advice.
cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate while breastfeeding
Chlorhexidine treatments are considered compatible with breastfeeding, but product-specific data for this solution are limited. Obtain professional advice, prevent the baby touching treated skin and wash your hands before handling or feeding the baby.
cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate interactions
Important interactions are mainly local incompatibilities that can reduce antiseptic activity.
Soaps and anionic detergents
Can inactivate chlorhexidine; do not mix them with the solution.
Alkaline preparations and tannins
Can reduce chlorhexidine's antiseptic action.
Blood and other organic matter
Contamination can reduce or inactivate chlorhexidine activity.
Common questions about cetrimide + chlorhexidine acetate
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is it an antibiotic?
It is a topical antiseptic and disinfectant, not a systemic antibiotic.
Can it be used in the eye?
No. Rinse accidental exposure immediately with plenty of water and seek prompt advice for symptoms or visual changes.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.