Chlorhexidine Topical Solution

What is this medication?

CHLORHEXIDINE (klor HEX i deen) prevents skin infection. It is often used to clean and disinfect the skin after an injury or before a procedure. It works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria on the skin.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Betasept, Chlorostat, Hibiclens

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• Any skin rashes or problems
• An unusual or allergic reaction to chlorhexidine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the label or those given to you by your care team. Keep out of eyes, ears and mouth. This medication should not be used as a preoperative skin preparation of the face or head.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be used for children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply; this medication is not for regular use.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

This medication may cause severe allergic reactions. Notify your care team right away if you think you are having an allergic reaction.

Do not take this medication by mouth. Avoid contact with your ears and eyes. If contact with the eyes occur, rinse the eyes well with plenty of cool tap water.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Store away from direct light and heat. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.