Medications and Drugs

1. Cosmetic Dentistry: Before and After Slideshow Pictures
2. Take the Dental Health Quiz

Brand Names: Peridex, Periogard, Perisol

Generic Name: chlorhexidine gluconate (oral rinse) (Pronunciation: klor HEX i deen)

• What is chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• What are the possible side effects of chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• What is the most important information I should know about chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• How should I use chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• What happens if I overdose (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• What should I avoid while taking chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• What other drugs will affect chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?

Chlorhexidine gluconate is a germicidal mouthwash that reduces bacteria in the mouth.

Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is used to treat gingivitis (swelling, redness, bleeding gums). Chlorhexidine gluconate is usually prescribed by a dentist.

Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is not for treating all types of gingivitis. Use the medication only to treat the condition your dentist prescribed it for. Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same gum symptoms you have.

Chlorhexidine gluconate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor if you have a serious side effect such as:

• white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;
• mouth ulcers; or
• swelling of your salivary glands (underneath your jaws).

Less serious side effects may include:

• mouth irritation;
• dry mouth;
• unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth; or
• decreased taste sensation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard, Perisol)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to chlorhexidine gluconate.

If you have periodontal disease, you may need special treatments while you are using chlorhexidine gluconate.

Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is not for treating all types of gingivitis. Use the medication only to treat the condition your dentist prescribed it for. Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same gum symptoms you have.

Do not give this medication to a child or teenager without a doctor's advice.

Do not add water to chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse. Do not rinse your mouth with water or other mouthwashes right after using chlorhexidine gluconate.

Avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth just after using this medication.

Do not use any other mouthwash unless your doctor has told you to.

Chlorhexidine gluconate can stain teeth, dentures, tooth restorations, your tongue, or the inside of your mouth. Talk with your dentist about ways to remove staining from these surfaces. Stains may be harder to remove from false teeth that have scratches in their surfaces.

Visit your dentist at least every 6 months for preventive tooth and gum care.

Need help identifying pills and medications?
Use the pill finder tool on RxList.