Chlorhexidine oral rinse

What is chlorhexidine oral rinse?
CHLORHEXIDINE oral rinse is used to treat gingivitis. Bacteria that grow on your teeth between brushings cause gingivitis. Chlorhexidine destroys this bacteria. Chlorhexidine oral rinse will help to decrease gum bleeding and redness and swelling of your gums. Chlorhexidine oral rinse will not prevent plaque or tartar from forming on your teeth. Proper toothbrushing and flossing are still needed. Treatment with chlorhexidine oral rinse usually begins immediately after a dental cleaning.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
•an unusual or allergic reaction to chlorhexidine, especially skin antiseptics
•other gum or dental problems
•front tooth fillings, dentures or other mouth appliances, especially those having rough surfaces

How should I take this medication?
Chlorhexidine oral rinse should be used immediately after brushing and flossing. Rinse all toothpaste completely from your mouth. The cap on the original container may be used to measure the 15ml (1 tablespoonful) dose. Fill the cap to the "fill line." If you do not have the cap, ask your pharmacist or other healthcare professional for a device to measure the dose. Swish 15 ml chlorhexidine oral rinse in your mouth for 30 seconds. Do not swallow the medicine. Use the medicine full strength; do not mix with water before using. Do not eat or drink for several hours after using the oral rinse as this may decrease the effect of the medicine. Your dose and daily use may be different from these directions. Follow the directions from your dentist or other healthcare professional.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and start back on your regular schedule. Do not use double doses.

What drug(s) may interact with chlorhexidine oral rinse?
Very little chlorhexidine is taken-up by your body. The oral rinse should not interact with any other medications you are taking.

Tell your prescriber or other health care professional about all other medicines you are taking including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffiene or alcohol, if you smoke or if you use illegal drugs. These may effect the way your medicine works. Check before stopping or starting any of your medications.

What side effects may I notice from using chlorhexidine oral rinse?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or other health care professional as soon as possible:
•shortness of breath
•rash
•hives
•itching
•swelling of tongue or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or other health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
Rare or uncommon:
•swollen glands on side of face or neck
•mouth irritation
•tongue irritation
More common:
•increased tartar build-up
•changes in taste or a metallic taste
•staining of teeth, fillings, dentures or other mouth appliances

What should I watch for while taking chlorhexidine oral rinse?
Visit your dentist every 6 months for dental cleanings and to check on your progress.

Chlorhexidine oral rinse may have a bitter aftertaste. Do not rinse your mouth after using chlorhexidine oral rinse because that will increase the bitter taste. Also, rinsing will decrease the effect of the chlorhexidine.

Chlorhexidine oral rinse may change the way food tastes to you. This effect may last up to 4 hours after using the rinse. Usually this effect becomes less noticeable as you continue using the rinse. Your taste should return to normal after stopping the use of chlorhexidine.

Chlorhexidine oral rinse may increase tartar build-up and stain your teeth, dentures or fillings. Brush with a tartar control toothpaste and floss daily to help decrease the amount of tartar build-up and staining. It is important to visit your dentist at least every 6 months to have your teeth cleaned.

Where can I keep my medication?
Keep the medicine out of reach from children. If child accidentally drinks chlorhexidine oral solution, get medical attention right away. Small children may have nausea and vomiting and signs of drunkenness.

Store away from direct light and heat.
Keep from freezing.
Do not keep or use the medicine after the expiration date on the bottle.