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Antiseptic Skin Cleanser

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Active ingredient
Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2 g/100 mL
Other brand names
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2012
Label revision date
December 16, 2012
Active ingredient
Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2 g/100 mL
Other brand names
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2012
Label revision date
December 16, 2012
Manufacturer
AVA, Inc.
NDC root
42939-103

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Drug Overview

Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2% Topical Solution is an antiseptic skin cleanser designed for external use. It is commonly used in healthcare settings to significantly reduce the number of microorganisms on the hands and forearms before surgery or patient care. This solution is also effective for preparing a patient's skin prior to surgery and for general skin cleansing, helping to reduce bacteria that can potentially cause disease.

In addition to its use as a surgical hand scrub, Chlorhexidine Gluconate can be applied for skin wound care, making it a versatile option for maintaining skin hygiene and preventing infections.

Uses

You can use this product for several important purposes related to hygiene and skin care. It is effective as a surgical hand scrub, significantly reducing the number of microorganisms on your hands and forearms before surgery or when providing patient care. If you are a healthcare worker, this product can help you wash your hands to lower the risk of spreading bacteria that could cause illness.

Additionally, it is suitable for preparing a patient's skin before surgery, ensuring that the area is clean and ready for the procedure. You can also use it for general skin cleansing and to clean skin wounds, promoting better hygiene and care.

Dosage and Administration

To properly use the surgical hand scrub, start by wetting your hands and forearms under running water. Then, take about 5 ml of the product and scrub for 3 minutes using a wet brush, making sure to focus on your nails, cuticles, and the spaces between your fingers. If needed, you can use a separate nail cleaner. After scrubbing, rinse your hands thoroughly. Next, wash again for another 3 minutes with 5 ml of the product and rinse under running water. Finally, dry your hands completely.

For healthcare personnel handwashing, wet your hands with water and dispense about 5 ml of the product into your cupped hands. Wash your hands vigorously for 15 seconds, then rinse and dry them thoroughly.

If you are preparing a patient’s skin before surgery, apply the product generously to the surgical site and swab it for at least 2 minutes. After that, dry the area with a sterile towel. Repeat this process for another 2 minutes and dry again with a sterile towel. For cleaning skin wounds or general skin cleansing, rinse the area with water first, then apply just enough product to cover the skin or wound and wash gently. Rinse the area thoroughly once more.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are allergic to chlorhexidine gluconate or any of its other ingredients. It is also important not to apply it in contact with the meninges (the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), in the genital area, or as a preoperative skin preparation on the head or face.

Using this product in these situations can lead to serious complications, so please ensure you follow these guidelines carefully for your safety.

Side Effects

When using this product, it's important to be aware of potential side effects. You should not use it if you are allergic to chlorhexidine gluconate or any of its ingredients, or if it comes into contact with certain sensitive areas, such as the meninges (the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord) or the genital area. Additionally, avoid using it as a preoperative skin preparation on the head or face.

While using the product, take care to keep it away from your eyes, ears, and mouth, as it can cause serious injuries, including permanent eye damage or deafness if it enters the middle ear through a perforated eardrum. If the solution accidentally contacts these areas, rinse thoroughly with water. If you experience irritation, sensitization, or an allergic reaction, stop using the product and consult a doctor, as these could indicate a more serious issue.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is for external use only, so please avoid using it on your eyes, ears, or mouth, as it can cause serious injuries, including permanent eye damage or hearing loss. Do not use it if you are allergic to chlorhexidine gluconate or any of its ingredients, and avoid applying it in the genital area or as a skin preparation for the head or face before surgery. If the solution accidentally contacts your eyes, ears, or mouth, rinse thoroughly with water right away.

While using this product, be cautious with wounds that go deeper than the surface of the skin, as they should not be treated routinely with this solution. If you experience any irritation, allergic reactions, or sensitization, stop using the product and consult your doctor, as these could indicate a more serious issue. Always keep this product out of reach of children, and if swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Overdose

If you or someone else has swallowed too much of a medication, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can do this by contacting a Poison Control Center or going to the nearest emergency room. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual symptoms that are not typical for the medication. If you notice any concerning changes in behavior or health, don’t hesitate to get help. Remember, it’s always better to be safe and seek assistance if you suspect an overdose.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's important to be cautious when using certain products, especially around infants. For instance, if you have a premature baby or an infant younger than 2 months, you should use these products carefully. They can potentially cause irritation or even chemical burns, which can be harmful to young skin.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before using any medication or product during pregnancy or when caring for infants to ensure safety for both you and your baby.

Lactation Use

If you are breastfeeding, it's important to use certain medications with caution, especially if your baby is a premature infant or younger than 2 months old. These products can potentially cause irritation or chemical burns in very young infants. Always consult with your healthcare provider before using any medication to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.

Pediatric Use

When using this product for children, especially for premature infants or those under 2 months old, it's important to be cautious. These young infants may experience irritation or even chemical burns from the product. Always ensure that the product is kept out of reach of children. If a child accidentally swallows it, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Your vigilance can help keep your child safe.

Geriatric Use

When considering medication for older adults, it's important to be cautious, especially if you are caring for premature infants or infants younger than 2 months. These medications can potentially cause irritation or even chemical burns in these vulnerable age groups.

Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that the medication is appropriate and safe for the specific needs of older adults or young infants. Taking these precautions can help prevent adverse effects and ensure better health outcomes.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication should be used if you have renal impairment (kidney issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your health situation. They can help determine the best course of action based on your kidney function and overall health.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if you have hepatic impairment (issues with liver function).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns regarding your liver health and how it may relate to your treatment. They can help ensure that you receive the safest and most effective care.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking. In this case, there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted, which means that this medication is generally considered safe to use alongside other treatments and tests. However, every individual is different, and your healthcare provider can help ensure that your overall treatment plan is safe and effective for you. Always feel free to ask questions or express any concerns you may have regarding your medications or tests.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). It's important to avoid exposing it to excessive heat, as temperatures above 40°C (104°F) can compromise its effectiveness.

When handling the product, always do so with clean hands and in a sterile field (a clean area free from germs) to maintain safety and prevent contamination. If you have any specific disposal instructions, be sure to follow them carefully to ensure safe and responsible disposal.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What is Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2% Topical Solution used for?

Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2% Topical Solution is an antiseptic skin cleanser used for surgical hand scrubs, healthcare personnel handwashing, patient preoperative skin preparation, and general skin cleansing.

How should I use Chlorhexidine Gluconate for surgical hand scrubbing?

Wet your hands and forearms under running water, scrub for 3 minutes with about 5 ml of the product, paying attention to nails and cuticles, rinse, and repeat for an additional 3 minutes.

Are there any contraindications for using this product?

Do not use Chlorhexidine Gluconate if you are allergic to it, in contact with meninges, in the genital area, or as a preoperative skin preparation of the head or face.

What should I do if I experience irritation or an allergic reaction?

Stop using the product and consult a doctor if you experience irritation, sensitization, or an allergic reaction, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Is Chlorhexidine Gluconate safe for infants?

Use with care in premature infants or infants under 2 months of age, as it may cause irritation or chemical burns.

What should I do if Chlorhexidine Gluconate gets into my eyes?

If the solution contacts your eyes, rinse out promptly and thoroughly with water to prevent serious injury.

How should I store Chlorhexidine Gluconate?

Store the product at 20-25°C (68-77°F) and avoid excessive heat above 40°C (104°F).

What are the side effects of Chlorhexidine Gluconate?

Warnings include keeping the product out of eyes, ears, and mouth, as it may cause serious injury if it contacts these areas.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Antiseptic Skin Cleanser (chlorhexidine gluconate). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Antiseptic Skin Cleanser.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Antiseptic Skin Cleanser, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

NDC 42939-103-04 identifies an antiseptic skin cleanser formulated with Chlorhexidine Gluconate 2% Topical Solution, USP. This product serves as an antiseptic and antimicrobial skin cleanser intended for external use only. It is packaged in a 32 fl. oz. (974 mL) container. The product features a tamper-evident seal, and it should not be used if the safety seal is broken or missing. AVA Incorporated is the manufacturer of this formulation.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for use as a surgical hand scrub, significantly reducing the number of microorganisms on the hands and forearms prior to surgical procedures or patient care. It is also indicated for healthcare personnel handwashing, aiding in the reduction of bacteria that may potentially cause disease. Additionally, this drug is utilized for patient preoperative skin preparation, ensuring the skin is adequately prepared prior to surgery. Furthermore, it is indicated for skin wound care and general skin cleansing.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Surgical hand scrub requires the operator to wet hands and forearms under running water. Approximately 5 ml of the product should be used in conjunction with a wet brush to scrub for a duration of 3 minutes, ensuring meticulous attention is given to the nails, cuticles, and interdigital spaces. A separate nail cleaner may be utilized if necessary. Following the initial scrub, the hands and forearms must be rinsed thoroughly. The procedure should be repeated with an additional 5 ml of product for another 3 minutes, followed by thorough rinsing under running water. Finally, hands and forearms should be dried thoroughly.

For healthcare personnel handwashing, the individual should wet their hands with water and dispense about 5 ml of the product into cupped hands. A vigorous washing technique should be employed for a minimum of 15 seconds, followed by thorough rinsing and drying.

In the context of patient preoperative skin preparation, the product should be applied liberally to the surgical site. The area must be swabbed for at least 2 minutes and then dried with a sterile towel. This procedure should be repeated for an additional 2 minutes, followed by drying with a sterile towel.

For skin wound and general skin cleansing, the area to be cleaned should be thoroughly rinsed with water. The minimum amount of product necessary to cover the skin or wound area should be applied, followed by gentle washing. The area must then be rinsed thoroughly again to ensure complete cleansing.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Patients with a known allergy to chlorhexidine gluconate or any other components of the formulation.

  • Application in contact with the meninges is contraindicated due to the risk of serious complications.

  • Use in the genital area is not recommended to avoid potential irritation or adverse effects.

  • The product should not be utilized as a preoperative skin preparation for the head or face to prevent possible adverse reactions.

Warnings and Precautions

For external use only. This product is contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to chlorhexidine gluconate or any other components of the formulation. It should not be applied in contact with the meninges, in the genital area, or utilized as a preoperative skin preparation for the head or face.

When using this product, it is imperative to avoid contact with the eyes, ears, and mouth. Exposure to these areas may result in serious and permanent eye injury if the solution is introduced into the eye during surgical procedures, or may lead to deafness if instilled in the middle ear through perforated eardrums. In the event of contact with these sensitive areas, it is essential to rinse thoroughly and promptly with water.

Wounds that extend beyond the superficial layers of the skin should not be routinely treated with this product. Additionally, repeated general skin cleansing of large body areas is discouraged unless necessitated by an underlying condition that requires a reduction in the bacterial population of the skin.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue use and consult a physician if any signs of irritation, sensitization, or allergic reaction occur, as these may indicate a serious condition.

This product should be kept out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact with a Poison Control Center is recommended.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware that it is intended for external use only. It is contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to chlorhexidine gluconate or any other ingredients contained in the formulation. The product should not be applied in contact with the meninges, in the genital area, or used as a preoperative skin preparation for the head or face.

During use, it is critical to avoid contact with the eyes, ears, and mouth, as exposure to these areas may result in serious and permanent eye injury or deafness if the solution is instilled in the middle ear through perforated eardrums. In the event that the solution comes into contact with these sensitive areas, it should be rinsed out promptly and thoroughly with water. Additionally, wounds that extend beyond the superficial layers of the skin should not be routinely treated with this product, and repeated general skin cleansing of large body areas should be avoided unless necessary to reduce the bacterial population due to an underlying condition.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience irritation, sensitization, or any allergic reactions, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Drug Interactions

There are no specific drug interactions identified for this medication. Additionally, no laboratory test interactions have been reported. Therefore, no dosage adjustments or monitoring recommendations are necessary based on drug or laboratory test interactions.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Antiseptic Skin Cleanser (chlorhexidine gluconate). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Antiseptic Skin Cleanser.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients, particularly premature infants and those under 2 months of age, should use this product with caution due to the potential for irritation or chemical burns. It is essential to keep the product out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact with a Poison Control Center is advised.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients should be monitored closely when using this medication, particularly those who are premature or under 2 months of age, as these populations may experience increased sensitivity. The potential for irritation or chemical burns necessitates caution in administration. It is advisable to consider the specific needs and health status of geriatric patients when determining the appropriateness of this treatment, ensuring that any risks are carefully weighed against the benefits.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients should be advised to use this product with caution, particularly in the context of premature infants or infants under 2 months of age. There is a potential risk of irritation or chemical burns associated with the use of this product in these vulnerable populations. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to weigh the benefits against the risks when considering the use of this product in pregnant patients, especially those who may be at risk of exposure to premature or very young infants.

Lactation

Lactating mothers should use this product with caution, particularly in the case of premature infants or those under 2 months of age. There is a risk that the product may cause irritation or chemical burns in these vulnerable populations. It is advisable for healthcare professionals to closely monitor breastfed infants for any adverse reactions when the mother is using this product.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the drug insert. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the lack of data necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdosage, immediate medical assistance is crucial. If the substance is ingested, healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Prompt intervention is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. Symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage these symptoms accordingly.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the individual patient's needs. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are recommended to ensure patient safety and effective resolution of any complications arising from the overdosage.

Nonclinical Toxicology

Use of the product in premature infants or infants under 2 months of age should be approached with caution due to the potential for irritation or chemical burns. No information is available regarding teratogenic effects, and there are no documented findings related to animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has indicated that caution is advised when using this product in premature infants or infants under 2 months of age. Reports suggest that these products may lead to irritation or chemical burns in this vulnerable population.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Instruct patients that if the product is swallowed, they should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Patients should be informed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience any irritation, sensitization, or allergic reactions, as these may indicate a serious condition.

When using this product, it is crucial to avoid contact with the eyes, ears, and mouth, as exposure may lead to serious and permanent eye injury if the product is placed or retained in the eye during surgical procedures, or may cause deafness if instilled in the middle ear through perforated eardrums. Should the solution come into contact with these areas, patients must rinse them promptly and thoroughly with water.

Additionally, patients should be cautioned that wounds involving more than the superficial layers of the skin should not be routinely treated with this product. Repeated general skin cleansing of large body areas should also be avoided unless necessary to reduce the bacterial population of the skin due to an underlying condition.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Care should be taken to avoid exposure to excessive heat, specifically temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), to maintain product integrity. Proper storage conditions are crucial for ensuring the efficacy and safety of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Antiseptic Skin Cleanser, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Antiseptic Skin Cleanser, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.