Is there chlorhexidine without alcohol? | Chlorhexidine

Is there chlorhexidine without alcohol?

Chlorhexidine is a chemical compound of chlorine and acetic acid, which naturally contains no alcohol. Often, however, this active ingredient is mixed with an alcohol-containing solution and other active ingredients in order to obtain an even broader spectrum of activity. In this way a lasting and comprehensive germicide can be guaranteed. However, many manufacturers are working on producing products without alcohol as well, as not everywhere such comprehensive bacterial control is necessary, and many consumers would like to have mouthrinse solutions without alcohol.

Nasal ointment containing chlorhexidine

Nasal ointments such as “Panthenol Nasal Ointment” can be purchased with or without chlorhexidine. They are used to support the nose in healing superficial mucous membrane injuries. Chronic wounds or abrasions are also treated in this way.

The additive chlorhexidine promotes wound healing by keeping the wound bacteria free. Thus even slightly dirty, superficial wounds heal quickly without becoming inflamed. Deep wounds are not treated with this ointment. If you are unsure, you should consult your pharmacist in advance.

Eye drops containing chlorhexidine

Eye drops containing chlorhexidine are applied to the eye as required, similar to other eye drops. They moisturize and prevent clouding of the lens and vitreous humour. The chlorhexidine contained can protect the eye from various bacteria and thus prevent inflammatory reactions.

Problems often occur when soft contact lenses are used simultaneously. The active ingredient then accumulates in the lens and changes it in such a way that the cornea is damaged. Therefore, this type of contact lenses should not be used during the period of application!

Chlorhexidine as disinfectant

Chlorhexidine is used as a bacteriostatic, i.e. bacteriostatic-inhibiting agent in many disinfectants. These are mainly used for the skin and the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. For oral disinfection, the dentist often prescribes it for inflammations, operations or after periodontal therapy.

According to current studies, home disinfection with chlorhexidine before operations has a very positive effect on the risk of infection. Compared to other disinfectants, in some cases the risk of surgery has been shown to be reduced by about 40%. CHX is rarely used in surface disinfection.

The reason for this is the slow onset of action, the formation of resistance and the fact that it has a reduced effect compared to other surface disinfectants against bacterial spores and uncoated viruses. CHX is rarely used in hand disinfection, and if so, then only in combination with other active ingredients. The reason for this is also the slow onset of action and the development of resistance.

The development of resistance means that some germs have learned to assert themselves against the agent and have become immune to it. Chlorhexidine, as chlorhexidine digluconate, is a very effective antiseptic in the oral cavity. It is used as an undiluted solution.

The indications are mainly bacterial diseases of the oral mucosa and the reducing influence of dental plaque. Chlorhrxidine digluconate has a wide spectrum of action on bacteria and viruses without the risk of resistance formation. Side effects may occur, but are harmless and reversible.