Neoxinal (Chlorhexidine Gluconate)

Neoxinal is used as a topical antiseptic to reduce microbial contamination on the skin and in wounds.

• Skin antisepsis: Provides rapid reduction of resident and transient bacteria on intact skin, supporting routine hygiene and infection control.
• Preoperative skin preparation: Cleanses the surgical site immediately before incision, decreasing the likelihood of postoperative surgical site infections.
• Wound cleaning: Disinfects minor cuts, abrasions, and postoperative wounds, helping to prevent colonisation by pathogenic microbes.

• Chlorhexidine gluconate is a cationic bisbiguanide that binds to negatively charged bacterial cell membranes. The interaction disrupts membrane integrity, causing leakage of intracellular constituents and loss of metabolic function, which leads to cell death. Its broad‑spectrum activity includes Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative bacteria, some yeasts and enveloped viruses, and the effect persists after the solution is removed, providing residual antimicrobial activity.

Topical application of chlorhexidine gluconate can be associated with a range of local and systemic reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Skin irritation: mild redness or itching at the application site.
• Burning sensation: transient stinging feeling upon contact.
• Dryness: temporary dryness of the treated skin.
• Contact dermatitis: mild eczema‑like rash in sensitive individuals.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction with airway compromise.
• Angioedema: rapid swelling of face, lips or tongue.
• Chemical burns: deep tissue injury from prolonged exposure.
• Systemic toxicity: rare absorption leading to hypotension or renal effects.

When using Neoxinal, observe the following safety measures to minimise adverse reactions and ensure effective antisepsis.

• Avoid use on mucous membranes: do not apply to eyes, ears or oral cavity.
• Do not apply to large broken skin areas: limit use to intact or minor wound surfaces.
• Perform a patch test: check for hypersensitivity before first widespread application.
• Keep away from children: store out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not combine with alcohol‑based antiseptics: may increase irritation risk.
• Store at room temperature: keep in original container, protect from light and moisture.

Chlorhexidine gluconate may interact with certain agents, affecting safety or efficacy.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent ear preparations containing aminoglycosides: increased risk of ototoxicity.
• Use with other topical antiseptics containing alcohol: heightened skin irritation.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Co‑application with topical corticosteroids: possible reduction of antimicrobial activity.
• Use alongside wound dressings containing iodine: may diminish overall antiseptic effect.
• Combination with latex gloves: chlorhexidine can degrade latex, increasing risk of glove failure.