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Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%]: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Umbilical Cord Antisepsis in Newborns (Established Use) Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] gel is used for antiseptic cleansing/application to the umbilical cord stump of newborn infants.

Forms:Topical Solution

About Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%]

Indications of Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%]

Umbilical Cord Antisepsis in Newborns (Established Use)

Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] gel is used for antiseptic cleansing/application to the umbilical cord stump of newborn infants. Community-based trials and a Cochrane systematic review have shown that cleansing the cord with chlorhexidine reduces the incidence of omphalitis (cord infection) and neonatal mortality, particularly in home-birth and low-resource settings with high baseline rates of infection. This is the primary, evidence-supported indication for this specific high-strength (7.1%, delivering approximately 4% free chlorhexidine) formulation.

General Topical Antisepsis (Formulation-Dependent Use)

Depending on the specific licensed product, Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] may also be used as a topical antiseptic for pre-procedural or surgical skin preparation. This use is formulation- and label-specific and should follow the instructions on the particular product's packaging.

Note: Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] is for external/topical use only. It is not intended for use on mucous membranes, eyes, ears, or broken/deep wounds.

Dosage & Administration of Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%]

Umbilical Cord Care in Newborns

PopulationRegimen
Term and near-term newborns (community/home-birth protocols)A small amount of Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] gel is applied to cover the entire umbilical cord stump and surrounding base once, as soon as possible after birth (within 24 hours), OR once daily for the first 7 days of life, according to the specific protocol recommended by the treating physician or national newborn care program.
Hospital-born, low-risk newborns with routine dry cord careUse of Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] is generally reserved for settings/protocols where antiseptic cord care is specifically indicated; follow local facility or physician guidance.

Always follow the specific application schedule advised by the physician, midwife, or the product labeling, as protocols (single application vs. daily application for 7 days) vary by program and product.

Side Effects of Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%]

Local application of Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] is generally well tolerated but may cause:

  • Mild local skin irritation, redness, or dryness at the application site
  • Contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
  • Rare hypersensitivity reactions, including allergic skin reactions; very rare serious allergic/anaphylactic reactions have been reported with chlorhexidine-containing products
  • Chemical skin burns have been reported, predominantly with prolonged or occlusive contact of chlorhexidine-based antiseptics on the very immature, fragile skin of extremely premature infants

Seek medical advice if irritation, blistering, or signs of an allergic reaction occur.

Contraindications of Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%]

Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine or to any component of the formulation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%]

What is Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] used for?

Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] is an antiseptic gel used mainly to clean and protect the umbilical cord stump of newborn babies, helping to prevent cord infection (omphalitis) and reduce the risk of serious newborn infections.

How is Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] applied to a newborn's cord?

A small amount of Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] gel is applied to cover the umbilical cord stump and its base, either as a single application soon after birth or once daily for up to 7 days, exactly as directed by your physician or midwife.

Is Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] safe for premature babies?

Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] should be used with extra caution in extremely premature or very low-birth-weight infants because their skin is more fragile and there is a higher risk of skin irritation or chemical burns. Use in these babies should only be under the direction of a physician or neonatologist.

Can Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] be used near the eyes or mouth?

No. Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] is for external use on the umbilical cord area only and must be kept away from the eyes, ears, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical advice.

What side effects can occur with Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%]?

Most babies tolerate Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] well, but mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness can occur at the application site. Rarely, allergic reactions or, particularly in very premature infants, chemical skin burns have been reported. Contact a physician if irritation, blistering, or a rash develops.

What should be done if too much Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] is applied or it is swallowed?

Topical overuse is unlikely to cause serious harm, but if Chlorhexidine Gluconate [7.1%] is accidentally swallowed or gets into the eyes in a significant amount, rinse the area with water and seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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