Chlorhexidine Gluconate

Topical antiseptic for wound irrigation, surgical preparation, perioperative site preparation, and treatment of skin/ear infections in horses and small animals. Bisbiguanide antiseptic (chlorhexidine gluconate or acetate). Mechanism: disrupts gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial cell membranes via electrostatic binding to negatively charged cell surface → leakage of intracellular contents and cell death. Residual antimicrobial activity (binds to skin proteins). Active against bacteria, yeast/fungi, and some enveloped viruses. Concentration-dependent. Key information Topical antiseptic only. OTOTOXIC — never instill in ears if eardrum integrity uncertain. Avoid contact with eyes. Not for IV use. Concentrations >2% can cause tissue damage. Incompatible with soaps/detergents (inactivated).

Topical wound cleanser: apply directly or dilute as appropriate (0.05% for wound use). Flush wounds gently with syringe. Ophthalmic: use ophthalmic-grade formulation only. Otic: confirm tympanic membrane integrity first; apply as directed. Shampoo/scrub: lather, leave 5–10 min contact time, rinse thoroughly. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.

Topical/wound: generally well tolerated. Ototoxicity if instilled into middle ear (ruptured TM — verify before otic use). Mucosal irritation at high concentrations. Hypersensitivity (rare). Systemic absorption minimal from intact skin; significant from inflamed or broken skin.

For animals Do not use in ears if tympanic membrane integrity is uncertain — ototoxic with ruptured TM. Avoid in eyes (corneal damage at high concentrations). Do not inject or use in body cavities without dilution. Systemic absorption from inflamed skin or wounds can be significant. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Avoid inhaling sprays or aerosols. Keep out of reach of children. Generally safe at labeled concentrations. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Ototoxic — do not instill in human ears. Hypersensitivity reactions possible.

If excessive product was applied, wash the area thoroughly with mild soap and water. Contact your veterinarian if the animal shows any signs of irritation, lethargy, tremors, or other unusual behavior. If ingested, contact your veterinarian. Chlorhexidine is toxic if swallowed — causes GI irritation and possible GI bleeding. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.