Hydrex Surgical Scrub Skin Cleanser (Chlorhexidine Gluconate)

Hydrex Surgical Scrub Skin Cleanser is indicated for topical antiseptic preparation of the skin in several clinical contexts.

• Pre‑operative skin cleansing of the surgical site to reduce microbial load.
• Surgical hand antisepsis for operating‑room personnel prior to sterile procedures.
• Preparation of skin before insertion of invasive devices such as catheters or drains.
• Antiseptic cleansing of intact skin in emergency or trauma settings where rapid decontamination is required.
• Use in dermatologic procedures to minimize risk of infection when skin integrity is maintained.

• Chlorhexidine gluconate exerts its antiseptic effect by binding to negatively charged bacterial cell walls and disrupting membrane integrity. The cationic molecule penetrates the lipid bilayer, causing leakage of intracellular contents and precipitation of cytoplasmic proteins, which leads to rapid cell death. This broad‑spectrum activity covers Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative bacteria, as well as certain fungi and enveloped viruses. The effect is concentration‑dependent and persists for a period after rinsing.

Adverse reactions to Hydrex Surgical Scrub Skin Cleanser are generally mild, but occasional more serious events have been reported.

Common

• Transient skin redness or erythema at the application site.
• Mild itching or pruritus.
• Temporary stinging or burning sensation during use.
• Dryness or peeling of the skin after repeated applications.
• Mild swelling of the treated area.
• Temporary discoloration of the skin that resolves spontaneously.

Serious

• Allergic contact dermatitis characterized by rash, swelling, and vesicle formation.
• Severe skin irritation leading to ulceration.
• Anaphylactic reactions such as hives, swelling of the face, or respiratory difficulty (rare).
• Systemic toxicity manifesting as hypotension or tachycardia (extremely rare).

When using Hydrex Surgical Scrub Skin Cleanser, certain precautions help minimize risks and ensure effective antisepsis.

• Avoid application on broken, inflamed, or mucous membranes.
• Do not use on patients with known hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine or related compounds.
• Rinse thoroughly after the recommended contact time to reduce residual irritation.
• Keep the product out of the eyes; if accidental contact occurs, irrigate with copious water.
• Store at room temperature, protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Use only as directed; excessive amounts do not increase efficacy and may increase irritation.
• Discontinue use and seek medical advice if signs of an allergic reaction develop.

Hydrex Surgical Scrub Skin Cleanser may interact with certain substances, affecting its antiseptic performance or increasing irritation risk.

Avoid

• Concurrent use with other topical antiseptics containing alcohol or iodine, which can cause excessive skin irritation.
• Application over dressings impregnated with silver or other antimicrobial agents that may reduce chlorhexidine activity.

Use with caution

• Use with topical anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine) as combined irritation may be heightened.
• Caution when applying after soaps or detergents containing surfactants that could alter skin pH.
• When used in patients receiving systemic chlorhexidine (e.g., catheter lock solutions), monitor for cumulative exposure.
• Avoid simultaneous use with products containing strong acids or bases that could inactivate chlorhexidine.