Hydrex Surgical Scrub (Chlorhexidine Gluconate)

Hydrex Surgical Scrub is indicated for use in surgical settings where skin antisepsis is required.

• Pre‑operative cleansing of the surgical site to lower bacterial contamination before incision.
• Surgical hand antisepsis for operating‑room personnel to achieve a sustained reduction in hand flora.
• Preparation of intact skin prior to invasive procedures such as catheter insertion or minor dermatologic surgery.
• Adjunctive antiseptic for equipment or surface decontamination when a liquid scrub is appropriate.
• Use in combination with sterile drapes to maintain a sterile field during lengthy operations.

• Chlorhexidine gluconate exerts its antiseptic effect by binding to bacterial cell membranes and disrupting their integrity. The cationic molecule interacts with negatively charged phospholipids, leading to leakage of intracellular contents and loss of essential ions. At higher concentrations, it precipitates cytoplasmic proteins, causing rapid cell death. This broad‑spectrum activity covers Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative bacteria, selected viruses and fungi, providing persistent antimicrobial action on the skin.

Adverse skin reactions may occur with topical chlorhexidine products, including Hydrex Surgical Scrub.

Common

• Mild skin irritation such as redness, itching or burning at the application site.
• Transient dry or flaky skin following repeated use.
• Localized allergic contact dermatitis presenting as erythema and mild swelling.

Serious

• Severe allergic reactions, including urticaria, angioedema or anaphylaxis.
• Significant skin necrosis or ulceration, especially with prolonged exposure.
• Eye irritation or damage if the solution contacts the ocular surface.
• Systemic toxicity is rare but may present as hypotension or tachycardia if large amounts are absorbed.

When using Hydrex Surgical Scrub, several precautions should be observed to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• Confirm that the skin is intact; avoid application to open wounds, mucous membranes or damaged tissue.
• Do not use on patients with a known hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine or related compounds.
• Limit exposure time according to institutional protocols to prevent excessive skin drying.
• Rinse thoroughly after the recommended contact period to remove residual antiseptic.
• Store the product at room temperature, protected from light, and keep the container tightly closed.

Hydrex Surgical Scrub may interact with other topical agents or systemic medications; awareness of potential interactions helps maintain patient safety.

Avoid

• Concurrent use with other chlorhexidine‑containing products, which can increase the risk of skin irritation.
• Application over topical anesthetics or corticosteroids, as absorption may be enhanced.

Use with caution

• Co‑administration with iodine‑based antiseptics; alternating use is recommended to prevent chemical incompatibility.
• Use in patients receiving systemic antibiotics; monitor for additive antimicrobial effects that may mask infection signs.
• Combination with wound dressings containing silver; assess for potential reduced efficacy of either agent.