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SENSORY ORGANS › OPHTHALMOLOGICALS › ANTIINFECTIVES › Other antiinfectives
chlorhexidine
S01AX09
Forms & Strengths
- Ophthalmic solution: 0.2%
Adult Dosing
- Ophthalmic irrigation/antisepsis: instill 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) as needed or pre-operatively.
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients not established; use with caution if clinically indicated.
Indications
- Ocular antisepsis
- Pre-operative preparation of the eye surface
Mechanism of Action
- Cationic bisbiguanide antiseptic that binds to negatively charged bacterial cell walls, causing leakage of intracellular constituents, precipitation of cytoplasmic proteins, and cell lysis.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine or any component of the formulation
- Intraocular use (avoid contact with the corneal endothelium where higher concentrations may cause toxicity)
Adverse Reactions
- Transient ocular stinging or burning
- Conjunctival hyperemia
- Blurred vision
- Allergic contact dermatitis
Drug Interactions
- Incompatible with soaps, anionic detergents, and high concentrations of inorganic salts
- May precipitate if mixed with other topical ophthalmic solutions containing borates or halides
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use