Chlordine

Generic composition: Chlorhexidine Gluconate

General Introduction

Chlordine mouth wash is Chlorhexidine Gluconate oral solution. Chlorhexidine gluconate product is a near neutral solution (pH range 5-7) and is a salt of Chlorhexidine and gluconic acid. Chlorhexidine has activity against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, facultative anaerobes, aerobes, and yeast. It is both bacteriostatic and bactericidal, depending on its concentration.

Therapeutic category

• Microbicidal

 Dosage forms available 

• CHLORDINE 0.2% oral mouth rinse

Mode of action

• The bactericidal effect of chlorhexidine is a result of the binding of this cationic molecule to negatively charged bacterial cell walls. At low concentrations, this causes an alteration of bacterial cell osmotic equilibrium and leakage of potassium and phosphorous resulting in a bacteriostatic effect. At high concentrations of chlorhexidine, the cytoplasmic contents of the bacterial cell precipitate and result in cell death.

Pharmacokinetics

• Pharmacokinetic studies with Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse indicate approximately 30% of the active ingredient, Chlorhexidine gluconate, is retained in the oral cavity following rinsing. This retained drug is slowly released into the oral fluids. Studies demonstrate Chlorhexidine gluconate is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The mean plasma level of Chlorhexidine gluconate reached a peak in 30 minutes and detectable levels of Chlorhexidine gluconate were not present in the plasma 12 hours of administration. Excretion of Chlorhexidine gluconate occurred primarily through the feces. 

Uses

• This medication is used along with regular tooth brushing/flossing to treat gingivitis, a gum disease that causes red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums.
• Chlorhexidine has also been used in those with weakened immune systems to decrease the formation of mouth sores (mucositis), and used to help prevent pneumonia in hospitalized patients breathing through a ventilator (off-label).

Dosage

• About 5-15ml (undiluted) orally rinse, generally after brushing, don’t swallow

Side effects

Tooth/tongue staining, increased tartar, mouth/throat irritation, dry mouth, and change in taste of food/drinks may occur.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Chlorhexidine gluconate or other formula ingredients

Advantages

• Chlorhexidine Mouthwash has a broad spectrum of activity and destroys both bacteria and fungi
• Chlorhexidine Mouthwash offers both anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory properties and acts at a pH level close to neutrality 
• Chlorhexidine Mouthwash coats all areas of the mouth including tooth surfaces, gums, cheeks and other mouth tissue to ensure a long-lasting anti-plaque and antiseptic effect
• Chlorhexidine Mouthwash has been shown to work for up to 8 hours