Lidofon (Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride, Lidocaine Hydrochloride)

Lidofon combines an antiseptic and a local anesthetic for oral mucosal care, targeting bacterial colonisation and pain.

• Dental plaque control: helps reduce bacterial load on teeth and gums during and after dental procedures.
• Gingivitis management: assists in controlling inflammation and microbial growth in mild gingival disease.
• Oral ulcer pain relief: provides temporary numbing to alleviate discomfort from aphthous ulcers or traumatic lesions.

• Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride binds to bacterial cell membranes, disrupting their integrity and causing leakage of intracellular contents, which leads to cell death. Lidocaine Hydrochloride penetrates nerve membranes and blocks voltage‑gated sodium channels, preventing the initiation and propagation of nerve impulses, thereby producing local anaesthesia in the oral mucosa. The combined effect results in a rapid reduction of oral microbial flora while simultaneously providing analgesia to the treated area.

Lidofon may cause local or systemic adverse reactions, which are generally mild but can be serious in rare cases.

Common Side Effects

• Taste alteration: transient metallic or bitter taste in the mouth.
• Oral irritation: mild burning or tingling sensation at the application site.
• Staining of teeth or oral tissues: reversible discoloration with prolonged use.
• Dry mouth: temporary reduction in salivary flow.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Oral mucosal ulceration: severe irritation leading to ulcer formation.
• Parotid gland swelling: enlargement of salivary glands.
• Systemic toxicity: signs of lidocaine overdose such as dizziness or cardiac arrhythmia (very rare).

When using Lidofon, consider the following precautions to minimise risk and ensure safe administration.

• Contraindication: avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine, lidocaine or any formulation components.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if clearly needed, as safety data are limited.
• Pediatric use: exercise caution; dosage and suitability should be determined by a qualified clinician.
• Oral surgery: delay use if extensive tissue trauma is expected, to allow proper wound assessment.
• Interaction with alcohol‑based mouthwashes: avoid concurrent use as it may increase irritation.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in the original container, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Lidofon can interact with other medicines or substances, influencing its efficacy or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use with other topical anesthetics: may increase risk of systemic lidocaine toxicity.
• Combination with strong oxidizing agents (e.g., hydrogen peroxide): can inactivate chlorhexidine, reducing antimicrobial effect.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Systemic lidocaine‑containing products (e.g., intravenous lidocaine): monitor total lidocaine exposure.
• Anticholinergic drugs: may exacerbate dry‑mouth sensation.
• Alcohol‑containing oral rinses: may enhance mucosal irritation.
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines): possible additive staining of teeth.