Compendium of the most significant studies with reference to properties, intake, effects.

Padois K, Bertholle V, Pirot F, Hyunh TT, Rossi A, Colombo P, Falson F, Sonvico F. Chlorhexidine salt-loaded polyurethane orthodontic chains: in vitro release and antibacterial activity studies. AAPS PharmSciTech. 2012 Dec;13(4):1446-50. doi: 10.1208/s12249-012-9872-6. 

Abstract. The aim of the present study was to characterize the in vitro release of chlorhexidine from new polymeric orthodontic chains realized with polyurethane loaded with two different chlorhexidine salts: chlorhexidine diacetate or chlorhexidine digluconate. The orthodontic chains constituted of three layers: a middle polyurethane layer loaded with chlorhexidine salt inserted between two layers of unloaded polymer. In vitro release of chlorhexidine diacetate and digluconate from orthodontic chains loaded with 10% or 20% (w/w) chlorhexidine salt was sustained for 42 days and followed Fickian diffusion. The drug diffusion through the polyurethane was found to be dependent not only on chlorhexidine loading, but also on the type of chlorhexidine salt. The antibacterial activity of 0.2% (w/w) chlorhexidine diacetate-loaded orthodontic chain was successfully tested towards clinically isolated biofilm forming ica-positive Staphylococcus epidermidis via agar diffusion test. In conclusion, the chlorhexidine salt-loaded chains could provide an innovative approach in the prevention of oral infections related to the use of orthodontic devices.

Haydari M, Bardakci AG, Koldsland OC, Aass AM, Sandvik L, Preus HR. Comparing the effect of 0.06% -, 0.12% and 0.2% Chlorhexidine on plaque, bleeding and side effects in an experimental gingivitis model: a parallel group, double masked randomized clinical trial. BMC Oral Health. 2017 Aug 18;17(1):118. doi: 10.1186/s12903-017-0400-7. 

Abstract. Chlorhexidine is the gold standard of dental plaque prevention. The aim of the present study was to compare the plaque and gingivitis inhibiting effect of commercial products containing 0.2%, 0.12% and 0.06% chlorhexidine in a modified experimental gingivitis model.

Bernardi A, Teixeira CS. The properties of chlorhexidine and undesired effects of its use in endodontics. Quintessence Int. 2015 Jul-Aug;46(7):575-82. doi: 10.3290/j.qi.a33934.

Abstract. The purpose of this article was to review the literature on the properties of chlorhexidine (CHX) and the adverse effects that may occur from its use in endodontics. In addition, adverse effects that may result from its use, such as dark staining of teeth, chemical interaction with sodium hypochlorite and formed flocculate, biologic hazards, and interactions with the filling material were evaluated.

Nezam S, Singh P, Ojha R, Khan SA, Kumari N, Kumari N. Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of Magnetized Water and Its Comparison with Chlorhexidine 0.2% in Young Children for 3 Weeks. J Contemp Dent Pract. 2022 Jan 1;23(1):83-88.

Abstract. The goal of this study was to compare the effects of magnetized water and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash on gingivitis and plaque prevention in children aged 12-15 years for a period of 21 days.

Jeanes A, Bitmead J. Reducing bloodstream infection with a chlorhexidine gel IV dressing. Br J Nurs. 2015 Oct 22-Nov 11;24(19):S14-9. doi: 10.12968/bjon.2015.24.Sup19.S14. 

Abstract. The use of vascular access devices (VAD) is common in healthcare provision but there is a significant risk of acquiring an infection. Central venous catheters (CVC) are associated with the highest risk of intravenous catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI). 3M™ Tegaderm™ CHG IV dressing is a semi-permeable transparent adhesive dressing with an integrated gel pad containing chlorhexidine gluconate 2%. This product was reviewed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in 2015, recommending that Tegaderm CHG could be used for CVC and arterial line dressings in high-dependency and intensive-care settings. This article discusses issues around CRBSI, interventions to reduce the risk of CRBSI, and the use of Tegaderm CHG dressing.

Lee A, Harlan R, Breaud AR, Speck K, Perl TM, Clarke W, Milstone AM. Blood concentrations of chlorhexidine in hospitalized children undergoing daily chlorhexidine bathing. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2011 Apr;32(4):395-7. doi: 10.1086/659154. 

Abstract. We collected serial blood samples from children in the intensive care unit who underwent daily bathing with 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)-impregnated cloths. Low concentrations of CHG were detected in a few blood samples, indicating absorption through intact skin. There was no suggestion that CHG accumulated in the blood with repeated exposures.