Chlorhexidine 4% Sizes Available in Canada
In Canada, chlorhexidine gluconate 4% solution is available in 118 mL (4 fl oz) bottles with a flip-top design. 1
Product Details
- Chlorhexidine gluconate 4% solution is available as an antiseptic liquid in 118 mL (4 fl oz) containers with a flip-top design 1
- The product is manufactured as a non-sterile solution intended for external use only 1
- The active ingredient is specifically formulated as chlorhexidine gluconate solution at 4% concentration 1
Clinical Relevance and Applications
- 4% chlorhexidine gluconate formulations have greater antimicrobial efficacy compared to lower concentrations (0.5% or 2%) for skin antisepsis 2
- Preparations with 2% chlorhexidine gluconate are slightly less effective than those containing 4% chlorhexidine for hand hygiene and surgical preparation 2
- 4% chlorhexidine detergent solutions have been shown to be significantly more effective than other antiseptic products like 2% triclosan for surgical hand disinfection 3
Usage Considerations
- The 4% chlorhexidine solution is primarily used for skin antisepsis and surgical hand preparation due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity 2
- Chlorhexidine has substantial residual antimicrobial activity on the skin, making it valuable for sustained protection 2
- Products containing 4% chlorhexidine are most likely to cause dermatitis when used frequently for antiseptic handwashing compared to lower concentrations 2
Storage and Handling Precautions
- The product should be kept from freezing to maintain its efficacy 1
- Chlorhexidine gluconate skin cleansers will cause stains if used with chlorine-releasing products such as chlorine bleach 1
- When using the product, it should be rinsed completely and only non-chlorine detergents should be used for laundering/cleaning 1
Safety Considerations
- The product is labeled for external use only and contains warnings regarding potential exposure to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer 1
- Care must be taken to avoid contact with eyes when using preparations with >1% chlorhexidine, as it can cause conjunctivitis and severe corneal damage 2
- Ototoxicity precludes its use in surgery involving the inner or middle ear, and direct contact with brain tissue and meninges should be avoided 2