From the Guidelines
The generic version of Peridex is chlorhexidine gluconate, which is used as an antimicrobial agent in various formulations, including oral rinses and hand hygiene preparations. When considering the use of chlorhexidine gluconate, particularly in the context of oral health, it's essential to understand its properties and applications. According to 1, chlorhexidine gluconate has been widely used for its antimicrobial activity, which is attributed to its ability to disrupt cytoplasmic membranes. This makes it effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including gram-positive bacteria, with somewhat less activity against gram-negative bacteria and fungi.
Key points to consider when using chlorhexidine gluconate include:
- Its concentration: Formulations can vary, with 0.12% solutions commonly used for oral rinses and higher concentrations like 0.5% or 0.75% used in hand hygiene preparations.
- Application: For oral use, it's typically swished around the mouth for 30 seconds before being spat out, while for hand hygiene, it's applied as part of a handwashing routine.
- Efficacy: Chlorhexidine gluconate has substantial residual activity, making it effective for prolonged periods after application.
- Safety: When used as recommended, chlorhexidine has a good safety profile, though side effects can include taste alteration, tooth staining, and increased tartar formation in the context of oral use.
Given the information from 1, chlorhexidine gluconate is a versatile and effective antimicrobial agent, with its generic version being widely available for various applications, including as a substitute for Peridex in appropriate contexts. It's crucial to follow the recommended usage guidelines to maximize its benefits while minimizing potential side effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
Active ingredient: 2% chlorhexidine gluconate. Directions for use: Rinse skin area to be treated with Chlorhexidine solution 2%. Wipe away excess and pat dry with a sterile gauze or sponge. Dilute: 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of Chlorhexidine solution 2% per gallon of clean water. The generic version of Peridex is chlorhexidine gluconate. It is used as a topical solution, with directions for use including:
- Rinsing the skin area to be treated with the solution
- Wiping away excess and patting dry with a sterile gauze or sponge
- Diluting 1 ounce of the solution per gallon of clean water 2 2
From the Research
Peridex Generic
The generic version of Peridex is chlorhexidine, which is used as an antimicrobial agent in dentistry 3, 4.
Uses of Chlorhexidine
- Chlorhexidine is used as an adjunct to various treatments, including periodontal therapy, oral surgery, and implant dentistry 3, 5.
- It is available in different forms, such as mouthwash, gel, and chips, and is used to prevent gingivitis, maintain oral hygiene, and reduce plaque and gingival inflammation 3, 4.
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash is considered more effective than gels, and concentrations of 0.12% to 0.2% are recommended to minimize adverse effects 3, 6.
Adverse Effects
- Tooth staining is a common adverse effect reported by patients using chlorhexidine 3, 5.
- Other adverse effects include bitter taste, dryness of the mouth, and development of oral ulcerations 5.
- Chlorhexidine is generally considered safe, with minimal and transitory local and systemic side effects 4, 7.
Clinical Applications
- Chlorhexidine is used in various areas of dentistry, including oral surgery, periodontics, and general dentistry 3, 4.
- It is also used as a prophylactic agent to prevent infections in patients undergoing invasive procedures 7.
- Chlorhexidine chips are recommended for long-term treatments, especially in periodontitis patients undergoing nonsurgical treatments 3.