No, Hexachlorophene-Ethanol is NOT the Same as ChloraPrep
Hexachlorophene and ChloraPrep (chlorhexidine gluconate) are completely different antiseptic agents with distinct chemical structures, mechanisms of action, and clinical applications.
Key Differences
Chemical Composition
- ChloraPrep contains 2% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% isopropyl alcohol 1
- Hexachlorophene is a halogenated bisphenol compound that is chemically unrelated to chlorhexidine 1
- These are fundamentally different antiseptic molecules that cannot be used interchangeably
Clinical Applications and Safety Profile
- ChloraPrep is widely recommended for surgical skin preparation, central venous catheter insertion, and central neuraxial blockade 1, 2
- Hexachlorophene has largely fallen out of favor in modern clinical practice due to safety concerns, particularly neurotoxicity with systemic absorption
- ChloraPrep demonstrates superior antimicrobial efficacy with faster onset and longer duration of action compared to other antiseptics 1
Antimicrobial Spectrum
- Chlorhexidine gluconate (in ChloraPrep) is effective against nearly all bacteria and yeasts, retains efficacy in the presence of blood, and has substantial residual activity 1
- Hexachlorophene has a narrower spectrum of activity and different pharmacological properties
Common Pitfall to Avoid
Critical Safety Warning: Never substitute one antiseptic for another based on assumptions about similarity. Each antiseptic agent has specific indications, contraindications, and safety profiles that must be respected 1. Using the wrong agent could result in inadequate antisepsis or serious adverse events, including neurotoxicity if chlorhexidine-containing products are allowed to contact the cerebrospinal fluid 1.
What ChloraPrep Actually Contains
ChloraPrep is specifically formulated as 2% chlorhexidine gluconate combined with 70% isopropyl alcohol, delivered via a sterile single-use applicator 3, 4, 5. This combination provides both immediate antimicrobial activity from the alcohol and persistent residual activity from the chlorhexidine 3, 5.