If you are allergic to chlorhexidine, carefully read the labels of any products appearing in the list below, or any others that you think could contain chlorhexidine.
Examples of products that could contain chlorhexidine include:
• antiseptic mouthwashes
• antiseptic sore throat lozenges and sprays
• antiseptic toothpastes
• topical eczema creams, washes and emollients
• acne creams
• antiseptic powders, such as athlete’s foot powder
• antiseptic creams
• antiseptic wipes
• antiseptic dressings
• skin washes and cleansers
• topical disinfectants
• antiseptic wipes used by staff at blood donor centres
• deodorants and antiperspirants
• hair conditioners
• bladder washouts
• dental implants
• eye drops
• contact lens solutions
• catheters
• multi-use creams and sprays, such as nasal sprays, which may include chlorhexidine as a preservative
• sun creams
• some household products, such as detergent and disinfectant solutions
Apart from the single word chlorhexidine, other chemical names to look out for include chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, chlorhexidine diacetate, chlorhexidine gluconate and chlorhexidine digluconate.
Chlorhexidine can be used during medical procedures. If you are allergic to chlorhexidine, you must declare your allergy if you go into hospital or have dental treatment. Ensure any known allergies are recorded in your patient notes and mention your allergy every time you have treatment. Before having blood tests, check to find out if the wipes they use contain chlorhexidine.
We advise you to wear a medical alert bracelet so that ambulance staff, A&E staff and other medical personnel are aware of your allergy.
