Chlorhexidine 5%, concentrated solution

Therapeutic action

Antiseptic.

Indications

Antisepsis of small or superficial wounds and burns.

Forms and strengths

5% chlorhexidine (di)gluconate concentrated solution, to be diluted before use.

Preparation

Prepare diluted solutions with clean water, or sterile water:

• For one litre of 0.5% solution: 100 ml of 5% solution plus 900 ml of water.
• For one litre of 0.05% solution: 10 ml of 5% solution plus 990 ml of water.

Use

Apply diluted solution to small or superficial wounds and burns.

Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

• Do not use undiluted solution.
• Do not use with soap, creams, lotions, or a different antiseptic.
• Do not bring in contact with body cavities, brain and meninges, eyes, middle ear, or inner ear.
• Avoid use on mucous membranes, especially genital mucous membranes.
• May cause skin and mucous membrane irritation and rarely hypersensitivity reactions.
• In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with water.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: no contra-indication.
• Once diluted, use the solution within 24 hours because of the risk of contamination.