Chlorhexidine Gluconate MM

Chlorhexidine Gluconate MM Side Effects

Tooth/tongue staining, increased tartar, bitter taste, mouth/throat irritation, mouth sores (ulcers), coated tongue, and change in taste of food/drinks may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To decrease staining of teeth and mouth surfaces, brush with toothpaste 3 times daily, brushing more on the stained areas. Use of a "tartar control" toothpaste and electric toothbrush may be more effective. See your dentist at least every 6 months for tooth cleaning/tartar removal. To decrease the effect on how food tastes, eat first, followed by tooth brushing and then chlorhexidine rinse.

Remember that your doctor/dentist has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• permanent change in the ability to taste
• peeling of the inside of the mouth
• deep grooves in the tongue
• swelling of the glands located below and in front of the ears (parotid glands)
• swollen lumps in the cheeks or under the tongue (salivary glands)

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• mouth or skin rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. In the US, you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada, you may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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