Generic name: chlorhexidine gluconate (oral rinse) [ klor-HEX-i-deen ]
Brand names: Peridex, PerioChip, Periogard
Drug classes: Antiseptic and germicides, Mouth and throat products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 11, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Peridex?

Peridex is a germicidal mouthwash that reduces bacteria in the mouth.

Peridex is used to treat gingivitis (swelling, redness, bleeding gums). This medicine is usually prescribed by a dentist.

Peridex is not for treating all types of gingivitis. Use the medication only to treat the condition your dentist prescribed it for. Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same gum symptoms you have.

Peridex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Peridex side effects

Peridex can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction that may be life-threatening. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives, severe skin rash; wheezing, difficult breathing; cold sweats, feeling light-headed; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Peridex may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;

• mouth ulcers; or

• swelling of your salivary glands (underneath your jaws).

Common side effects of Peridex may include:

• mouth irritation;

• tooth staining;

• dry mouth;

• unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth; or

• decreased taste sensation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Peridex can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction that may be life-threatening. Get emergency medical help if you have: hives, severe skin rash; wheezing, difficult breathing; cold sweats, feeling light-headed; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Do not give this medication to a child or teenager without a doctor's advice. Peridex may cause severe irritation or chemical burns in young children.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to Peridex.

If you have periodontal disease, you may need special treatments while you are using Peridex.

Do not give this medication to a child or teenager without a doctor's advice. This medicine may cause severe irritation or chemical burns in young children. Peridex is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether chlorhexidine gluconate passes into breast milk or if it could affect the nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

How should I use Peridex?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use Peridex in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Rinse your mouth with Peridex twice daily after brushing your teeth.

Measure your dose using the cup provided with the medication. Swish the medicine in your mouth for at least 30 seconds, then spit it out. Do not swallow the mouthwash.

Do not add water to the oral rinse. Do not rinse your mouth with water or other mouthwashes right after using Peridex.

Peridex may leave an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Do not rinse your mouth to remove this taste after using the medication. You may rinse the medicine away and reduce its effectiveness.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before your gingivitis is completely cleared. Peridex will not treat a viral or fungal infection such as cold sores, canker sores, or oral thrush (yeast infection).

Visit your dentist at least every 6 months for preventive tooth and gum care.

Store Peridex at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Related/similar drugs

doxycycline, hydrocortisone topical, minocycline, chlorhexidine topical, Vibramycin, sodium hyaluronate topical, Periogard, Caphosol, Mouth Kote

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember, but brush your teeth first. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if a child has swallowed 4 or more ounces of Peridex.

An overdose of chlorhexidine would occur only if the medicine were swallowed. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, stomach pain, or the appearance of being drunk.

What should I avoid while taking Peridex?

Peridex can stain teeth, dentures, tooth restorations, your tongue, or the inside of your mouth. Talk with your dentist about ways to remove staining from these surfaces. Stains may be harder to remove from false teeth that have scratches in their surfaces.

Avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth just after using this medication.

Do not use any other mouthwash unless your doctor has told you to.

What other drugs will affect Peridex?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on Peridex. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

• Your pharmacist or dentist can provide more information about Peridex oral rinse.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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