Chlorhexidine Gluconate Side Effects and Warnings

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

All forms:

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.

Oral:

• If you have front-tooth fillings or other gum problems, talk with healthcare provider.

Skin:

• Protect clothing and fabrics from staining.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

Oral:

• Mouth and lip irritation. Frequent mouth care with a soft toothbrush or cotton swabs and rinsing mouth may help.

• Abnormal taste. This is usually reversible.

Skin:

• Dryness.

• Skin irritation.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Severe skin irritation.

• Any rash.

Oral:

• Severe gum irritation or swelling.

• Numbness or tingling around mouth.

• Staining of mouth, teeth, or fillings.

• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.