Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Chlorhexidine gluconate is administered in addition to routine oral hygiene practices such as tooth brushing and flossing for the management of gingivitis, a prevalent gum disease characterized by inflamed, reddened, and easily hemorrhaging gums.
Chlorhexidine belongs to a class of antimicrobial agents that act by reducing the quantity of bacteria present in the mouth, thereby mitigating the inflammation, erythema, and bleeding associated with gingivitis upon brushing.
Uses and Dosage
Following your physician’s instructions, perform a mouth rinse with the prescribed solution twice a day, preferably after breakfast and prior to bedtime.
Using the measuring cup provided, dispense 1/2 ounce (15 milliliters) of the solution, swish it in your mouth for 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Refrain from swallowing the solution or mixing it with any other substance.
Wait at least 30 minutes before engaging in activities such as mouth rinsing with water or mouthwash, brushing your teeth, eating, or drinking after using chlorhexidine.
Dosage is tailored to your medical condition and response to treatment. Consistent use of this medication is recommended to obtain optimal therapeutic benefits. To aid in adherence, use the medication at the same times daily.
The full therapeutic effects of this medication may take up to 6 weeks to manifest.
Notify your healthcare provider if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- cough
- diarrhea
- fatigue
- headache
- insomnia
- joint pain
- nausea
- sore throat
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- dizziness
- peripheral edema (swelling of the ankles)
- rhinitis or sinusitis
- urinary tract infection
- very slow heart rate (less than 50 beats per minute)
- hives
- swelling of face or throat
- difficulty breathing
- rash or itching
Caution
Prior to initiating chlorhexidine therapy, disclose any history of hypersensitivity to this medication or other allergens to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. This medicine may contain non-active ingredients that can provoke hypersensitivity reactions or other medical complications.
Before using this medication, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly any history of dental prostheses, such as crowns, veneers, or fillings, especially those on the anterior teeth and composed of porcelain.
Notify your healthcare provider of your pregnancy status before taking this medication.
It is currently unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult with your healthcare provider before nursing if you are prescribed chlorhexidine.
Form and Strength
Peridex is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Peridex liquid:
- 475ml
FAQ
Should I rinse with water after using Peridex?
Patients are instructed to not rinse with water or other mouthwashes, brush teeth or eat immediately after using Peridex.
Will Peridex get rid of infection?
Peridex will not treat a viral or fungal infection such as canker sores, or oral thrush.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/019028s020lbl.pdf
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/peridex-oral-rinse#adverseeffects
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6402/peridex-mucous-membrane/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/chlorhexidine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20068551?p=1
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/peridex-oral-rinse.html
