Before using this medication, tell your dentist or doctor about any other medical conditions that you have and about any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines that you are taking.
Chlorhexidine gluconate is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not likely to harm an unborn baby. Do not use chlorhexidine gluconate without first talking to your dentist or doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether chlorhexidine gluconate passes into breast milk. Do not use this medication without first talking to your dentist or doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Chlorhexidine gluconate has not been approved for use in children under the age of 18 years.
Use chlorhexidine gluconate exactly as directed by your dentist or doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, dentist, doctor, or nurse to explain them to you.
Use chlorhexidine gluconate after—not before—regular brushing and flossing. If you use it before, it will be washed away by brushing.
Measure out the appropriate amount of medication. Swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Do not swallow the mouthwash.
Do not rinse your mouth after using this medication, even if it leaves an unpleasant taste. Also avoid eating or drinking for at least 1 hour to allow the chlorhexidine to continue to work.
Use all of the chlorhexidine gluconate that has been prescribed for you, even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Store chlorhexidine gluconate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and use only your next regularly scheduled dose.
No life-threatening side effects are expected. Stop using chlorhexidine gluconate and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take chlorhexidine gluconate and talk to your dentist or doctor if you experience staining of the teeth or other surfaces in your mouth, changes in taste, or minor mouth irritation. These side effects are temporary and usually go away after treatment is discontinued.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
Do not swallow the chlorhexidine gluconate rinse. Swish it around your mouth and spit it out.
Use chlorhexidine gluconate after brushing and flossing your teeth.
Do not dilute the solution with water or any other liquid.
Avoid eating, drinking, and rinsing your mouth for at least 1 hour after using chlorhexidine gluconate.
Avoid eating or drinking for at least 1 hour after each dose.
While using chlorhexidine gluconate, avoid other mouthwashes or rinses unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
No drug interactions are known. Avoid other mouthwashes or rinses while using chlorhexidine gluconate.
An overdose is most likely to occur in a small child. Seek emergency medical attention or call a poison control center if you suspect an overdose.
Symptoms of an overdose resemble those of alcohol intoxication (drunkenness). Nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, a staggering walk, and drowsiness may develop.