Hexoral (Hexetidine)

Hexoral mouthwash is employed as a topical antiseptic to help control microbial growth in the mouth and throat, supporting overall oral hygiene and comfort.

• Reduces the number of normal oral bacteria, helping to maintain a balanced microbial environment.
• Assists in managing mild halitosis by decreasing odor‑producing organisms.
• Provides adjunctive antimicrobial care following dental extractions, scaling, or other oral procedures.
• Supports oral hygiene in immunocompromised patients by limiting opportunistic colonisation.
• Offers temporary soothing of mild sore‑throat discomfort associated with minor infections.
• Helps prevent colonisation of opportunistic microbes such as Candida species during short‑term use.

• Hexetidine, the active component of Hexoral, is a cationic bisbiguanide that interacts with the phospholipid bilayer of microbial cell membranes. By inserting into and destabilising the membrane structure, it increases permeability, causing leakage of intracellular contents and loss of cell integrity. This disruption interferes with essential metabolic processes, ultimately inhibiting bacterial, fungal and some viral replication within the oral cavity.

Like many oral antiseptics, Hexoral may cause local reactions in some users.

Common

• Transient burning or stinging sensation in the mouth.
• Mild metallic or bitter taste during or after use.
• Temporary discoloration of the oral mucosa.
• Slight increase in salivation.
• Mild irritation of the tongue.
• Temporary dryness of the mouth.
• Mild nausea.

Serious

• Persistent ulceration or erosion of oral tissues.
• Severe allergic reaction presenting as swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.
• Prolonged dysgeusia (altered taste) lasting more than a few days.
• Unexplained fever or systemic signs of infection.
• Swelling of the lips or face.
• Persistent redness of the gums.
• Severe throat edema.

When using Hexoral, certain precautions help minimise adverse reactions and ensure safe oral care.

• Do not swallow the product; it is intended for rinsing and expectoration only.
• Avoid use in children under six years of age unless directed by a healthcare professional.
• Discontinue use and consult a clinician if persistent irritation or allergic signs develop.
• Keep the mouthwash out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Do not use on open wounds or mucosal lesions without professional advice.
• Limit use to the recommended frequency, typically twice daily, to avoid over‑exposure.

Hexoral may interact with certain oral products or medications; awareness of these interactions can prevent reduced effectiveness or increased irritation.

Avoid

• Concurrent use with other antiseptic mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine, which may cause additive irritation.
• Rinsing immediately after applying topical oral medications (e.g., anesthetic gels) as it can dilute their effect.

Use with caution

• Use with alcohol‑based mouthwashes, as combined alcohol content may increase mucosal dryness.
• Combine with systemic antibiotics; monitor for altered taste perception.
• Use alongside corticosteroid oral sprays; observe for any increase in local irritation.
• When using with oral probiotics, ensure adequate interval to avoid neutralisation.