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 purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about chlorhexidine gluconate?

Do not give this medication to a child or teenager without a doctor's advice. This medicine may cause severe irritation or chemical burns in young children.

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.

Do not give this medication to a child or teenager without a doctor's advice. This medicine may cause severe irritation or chemical burns in young children.

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 gluconate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Usual Adult Dose for Skin Disinfection, Preoperative:

Chlorhexidine gluconate 2% cloth:
Patient preoperative skin preparation:
Hold package in one hand and lift flap on backside of package with the other hand. Grasp flap at top and pull down to tear flap away and expose foam. Alternatively, using sterile scissors, cut off end seal of package. Transfer contents onto prep table, avoiding contact between cloths and outside of package to reduce risk of cloth contamination. Use the first cloth to prepare the skin area indicated for a moist or dry site, making certain to keep the second cloth where it will not be contaminated. Use the second cloth to prepare larger areas.