Chlorhexidine Hydrochloride
Chlorhexidine Hydrochloride is a broad-spectrum antiseptic agent used for skin disinfection, oral hygiene, and wound care. It is commonly found in mouthwashes, surgical scrubs, and disinfectant solutions to reduce bacteria on surfaces and prevent infections.
Chlorhexidine Hydrochloride is an antiseptic medication used to disinfect skin, oral cavities, and wounds by killing or inhibiting bacteria and fungi.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2361
- Generic
- Chlorhexidine Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used for preoperative skin preparation, surgical hand scrubs, wound cleansing, oral rinse for gingivitis and plaque control, and general skin disinfection. Also used in catheter care and as a preservative in some eye drops.
A cationic bisbiguanide that binds to bacterial cell membranes, causing cell contents to leak out and leading to bacterial death. It has broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.
May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Should not be used in eyes, ears, or on large areas of burned skin. Can stain teeth and restorations when used in oral products. Not for internal use. Should be diluted appropriately for sensitive applications.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy