Last reviewed · How we verify

Chlorhexidine 0.2%, Corsodyl

University of Oslo · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Chlorhexidine is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that disrupts bacterial cell membranes and denatures proteins, providing antiseptic and disinfectant effects.

Chlorhexidine is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that disrupts bacterial cell membranes and denatures proteins, providing antiseptic and disinfectant effects. Used for Oral antiseptic for plaque and gingivitis prevention, Oral rinse for antimicrobial mouth wash.

At a glance

Generic nameChlorhexidine 0.2%, Corsodyl
SponsorUniversity of Oslo
Drug classAntimicrobial/Antiseptic agent
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOral Care / Infection Prevention
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Chlorhexidine works by binding to and disrupting the cell membranes of microorganisms, leading to leakage of cellular contents and cell death. At higher concentrations, it also denatures bacterial proteins and precipitates nucleic acids. This dual mechanism makes it effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungi and viruses.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape: