Chlorhexidine Mouthwash — ORE Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: A — 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate
Explanation lettering: D = shown as B · B = shown as C · E = shown as D · C = shown as E
The correct answer is 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate. This is the standard formulation of chlorhexidine mouthwash registered and prescribed in UK dental practice, as documented by eMC-registered products (Corsodyl, Care) and supported by clinical trials demonstrating efficacy for post-surgical prevention of alveolar osteitis and as an adjunct to periodontal therapy. While 0.12% (D) has some literature evidence for improved patient compliance with comparable efficacy, 0.2% remains the typical prescription concentration in the UK. Options B (0.02%) and C (2.0%) are subtherapeutic and supratherapeutic respectively. Option E (0.5%) is found in gels but not standard mouthwash formulations. The 0.2% concentration balances efficacy with tolerability and is the formulation dentists prescribe.
Reference: Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC): Chlorhexidine digluconate 0.2% w/v Antiseptic Mouthwash. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/ingredient/1767; supported by Efficacy of 0.2% Chlorhexidine Digluconate Mouthwash for Preventing Alveolar Osteitis After Third Molar Extraction (NCT02382809, 2016).