Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Clorhexidine gel

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

Chlorhexidine gel works as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that disrupts bacterial cell membranes and denatures proteins, providing antiseptic and disinfectant effects. Used for Oral antisepsis and plaque control, Wound disinfection and antisepsis, Topical antimicrobial treatment.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Chlorhexidine is a cationic bisbiguanide that binds to negatively charged bacterial cell membranes, causing leakage of cellular contents and cell death. It is effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungi and viruses. The gel formulation allows for topical application and prolonged contact with affected tissues.

Approved indications

• Oral antisepsis and plaque control
• Wound disinfection and antisepsis
• Topical antimicrobial treatment

Common side effects

• Tooth staining
• Taste alteration
• Oral irritation or ulceration
• Allergic contact dermatitis

Key clinical trials

• Regenerative Treatment of Traumatized Immature Permanent Incisors With Pulp Necrosis (NA)
• Initial Management of MRONJ Stages I and II, a Clinical Trial With Detection of Salivary Biomarkers (NA)
• Aloe Vera and Chlorhexidine Against Traumatic Oral Ulcers (PHASE4)
• Implant Healing Abutment and Chlorhexidine (PHASE4)
• Microbial Growth in the Suture Thread, After Application of Different Antiseptic Gels in Mandibular Third Molars Extraction (PHASE4)
• Periodontal Infection and Endothelial Dysfunction (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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