What is chlorhexidine gluconate?
Chlorhexidine gluconate is a germicidal mouthwash that reduces bacteria in the mouth.
Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is used to treat gingivitis (swelling, redness, bleeding gums). Chlorhexidine gluconate is usually prescribed by a dentist.
Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is not for treating all types of gingivitis. Use the medication only to treat the condition your dentist prescribed it for. Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same gum symptoms you have.
Chlorhexidine gluconate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about chlorhexidine gluconate?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to chlorhexidine gluconate.
If you have periodontal disease, you may need special treatments while you are using chlorhexidine gluconate.
Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is not for treating all types of gingivitis. Use the medication only to treat the condition your dentist prescribed it for. Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same gum symptoms you have.
Do not give this medication to a child or teenager without a doctor's advice.
Do not add water to chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse. Do not rinse your mouth with water or other mouthwashes right after using chlorhexidine gluconate.
Avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth just after using this medication.
Do not use any other mouthwash unless your doctor has told you to.
Chlorhexidine gluconate can stain teeth, dentures, tooth restorations, your tongue, or the inside of your mouth. Talk with your dentist about ways to remove staining from these surfaces. Stains may be harder to remove from false teeth that have scratches in their surfaces.
Visit your dentist at least every 6 months for preventive tooth and gum care.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using chlorhexidine gluconate?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to chlorhexidine gluconate.
If you have periodontal disease, you may need special treatments while you are using chlorhexidine gluconate.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether chlorhexidine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give this medication to a child or teenager without a doctor's advice.