Chlorhexidine Gluconate is a disinfectant cleaning agent used by veterinarians to clean and sanitize environmental surfaces. It is also used in less concentrated forms to treat infections of the skin, ears and mouth, including otitis externa and gum disease.

Veterinary Formulations of Chlorhexidine

Chlorhexidine is available over the counter in an array of trade names for veterinary use, including Chlorhexiderm® otic flush, Hexoral®  rinse, Nolvasan® Solution and Nolvasan®  Scrub. It can also be formulated to a veterinarian’s specifications by a veterinary compounding pharmacy.

Chlorhexidine Uses in Veterinary Medicine

Chlorhexidine is often prescribed to treat animal patients suffering from acute and chronic otitis externa (ear infectionor inflammation), gingivitis, periodontal disease, superficial skin infections and acute moist dermatitis. It is also commonly used to irrigate and cleanse wounds, or made into a shampoo for treating the skin.

Chlorhexidine is only effective against infections caused by bacteria, and is effective not against infections caused by parasites, fungi, or viruses.

Chlorhexidine Possible Side Effects and Precautions

Chlorhexidine is safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, but some animals may be hypersensitive to the medication. If a patient is sensitive to Chlorhexidine, allergic reactions may manifest, such as a skin rash, swelling of the face or tongue or difficulty breathing. If your pet experiences one or more of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The best way to avoid an allergic reaction is to dilute Chlorhexidine prior to administration.

How Is Chlorhexidine Administered?

Chlorhexidine can be administered in a variety of ways, with the method dictated by the condition being treated. For instance, in the treatment of gingivitis, the drug is administered as an oral solution, whereas for skin conditions, it can be applied directly to the skin or through a shampooing. The strength of the medication and the method and frequency of administration is determined by the treating veterinarian.

Since Chlorhexidine is being used to treat an infection caused by bacteria, it is very important to finish the complete course of treatment in accordance with veterinary instructions.

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