chlorhexidine gluconate solution at a glance
Medicine class
Topical antiseptic and antimicrobial emollient
Licensed role
Management of dry, itchy skin conditions, including eczema and dermatitis
Route
For external use on the skin only
Practical safety
Keep away from the eyes and ears; treated fabrics burn more easily
What is chlorhexidine gluconate solution used for?
The selected licensed cream is an antimicrobial emollient and soap substitute.
Managing dry, itchy skin conditions, including eczema and dermatitis
Moisturising and protecting dry skin while reducing germs on its surface
Cleansing in place of ordinary soap or shower gel
How does chlorhexidine gluconate solution work?
Chlorhexidine binds to skin and interferes with bacterial cell membranes. The emollient ingredients form a barrier that reduces moisture loss and helps relieve dryness and itching.
chlorhexidine gluconate solution preparations and strengths
Cream
Route: Cutaneous
Strengths: 1%, 1% w/w
How to take chlorhexidine gluconate solution
Use externally on the skin, following the product label or advice from a healthcare professional.
Massage gently into affected skin until absorbed.
As a soap substitute, use it instead of ordinary soap or shower gel, then pat the skin dry.
Wash hands after use unless treating them.
Keep away from the eyes, ears and mouth.
Take care because it can make skin, baths and showers slippery.
Keep treated clothing, bedding and dressings away from cigarettes, naked flames and other ignition sources.
chlorhexidine gluconate solution side effects
Get urgent medical advice
- Widespread rash, hives, blistering or marked skin irritation
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, wheezing, breathing difficulty, faintness or collapse
- Eye pain, redness or visual disturbance after accidental eye exposure
chlorhexidine gluconate solution in pregnancy
Chlorhexidine products are generally considered acceptable during pregnancy, although available information is limited. The selected product has no special pregnancy precautions. Discuss concerns with a pharmacist or prescriber.
chlorhexidine gluconate solution while breastfeeding
Chlorhexidine skin treatments can generally be used while breastfeeding. Prevent the baby from touching treated skin, wash your hands before handling the baby, and fully wash the product from the breast or nipple before feeding.
chlorhexidine gluconate solution interactions
Systemic interactions are unlikely because absorption through the skin is insignificant, but local incompatibilities matter.
Soap and other anionic cleansing agents
Direct mixing can reduce chlorhexidine's antimicrobial activity.
Hypochlorite bleach
It can produce brown stains on fabrics previously exposed to chlorhexidine.
Common questions about chlorhexidine gluconate solution
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is the cream used for?
It is licensed as an antimicrobial emollient and soap substitute for dry, itchy skin conditions, including eczema and dermatitis.
Can it replace soap?
Yes. It can be used as a cleanser instead of ordinary soap or shower gel.
Can children use it?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.