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Chlorhexidine Coupon - Chlorhexidine 473ml of 0.12% bottle of rinse

chlorhexidine

Generic Peridex
Used for Dental Care
Used for Dental Care

Chlorhexidine (Peridex) is an antiseptic mouthwash that's used to treat gingivitis (gum inflammation) in adults. Your dentist might prescribed it for you after a dental checkup if they think you need it. Typically, you rinse with chlorhexidine (Peridex) by mouth twice daily after you've brushed your teeth. Some common side effects of chlorhexidine (Peridex) include staining of the teeth, changes in taste, and hardening of dental tartar.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on July 20, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageReviewsInteractionsCostLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Chlorhexidine (Peridex)?

01:10
Featuring Joshua Murdock, PharmD, BCBBS
Reviewed by Christina Aungst, PharmD | February 12, 2025

What is Chlorhexidine (Peridex) used for?

  • Gingivitis

How Chlorhexidine (Peridex) works

Chlorhexidine (Peridex) is an antiseptic mouthwash that kills certain germs (e.g., bacteria, fungi, viruses) in your mouth. It destroys their protective coverings so these germs can't survive. As a result, chlorhexidine (Peridex) can be used to prevent dental plaque, which helps to treat gingivitis and relieve symptoms of gum bleeding and swelling.

Are you looking for information on Hibiclens (chlorhexidine) instead?
When does Chlorhexidine (Peridex) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsPeridex, Periogard
Drug ClassAntiseptic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$18.24(save 77.58%)
GoodRx discount
$4.09
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What are the side effects of Chlorhexidine (Peridex)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Staining of teeth, fillings, and tongue
  • Hardening of dental plaque (tartar)
  • Changes in taste

Other Side Effects

  • Canker sore
  • Mouth irritations (redness, swelling)
  • Peeling of mouth tissue
  • Red patches on the tongue

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe allergic reactions: rash or hives, swelling of your face or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
When do Chlorhexidine (Peridex) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Staining of teeth, fillings, and tongue
Hardening of dental plaque
Changes in taste
Severe allergic reactions
Seek immediate medical care if you experience this side effect.
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Bleeding, tender, or enlarged gums

cough, congestion or tightness in chest, or wheezing

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Tooth, gum, or mouth pain, tenderness, aching, throbbing, soreness, discomfort, or sensitivity (mild to moderate)

Less common

Indigestion or upset stomach

sore throat

ulcers or sores in the mouth

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Chlorhexidine (Peridex)

thumbs-up

Pros

Available as a lower-cost generic medication

No significant interactions with other medications or supplements

Might work well for people who didn’t see benefits with other mouthwashes for gingivitis

Helps to prevent dental plaque

thumbs-down

Cons

Available by prescription only

Can stain your teeth or change your taste buds

Might not be safe or effective for children

Short-term use only

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Chlorhexidine (Peridex)

pharmacist

  • You will typically receive a prescription for chlorhexidine (Peridex) at the dental office after a check-up. Make sure to follow up with your dentist every 6 months while you're using chlorhexidine (Peridex). This can help your dentist make sure this medication is working for you and not causing side effects.

    • Keep in mind that chlorhexidine (Peridex) alone is not enough to prevent gingivitis. It's important to regularly brush your teeth, clean between your teeth with a floss, and visit your dentist for a check up and professional cleaning. If you continue to experience gum bleeding and swelling, or you have loose teeth, see your dentist right away. These can be symptoms of severe gum disease (periodontitis).

      • It's recommended that you wait to eat food or drink liquid after using chlorhexidine (Peridex). If you don't wait, you might accidentally swallow some of the medication, which can cause stomach irritation or nausea.

        • Brush your teeth before rinsing your mouth with chlorhexidine (Peridex). Don't rinse your mouth with water or other mouthwash and don't brush your teeth after. Doing so can cause chlorhexidine (Peridex) to not work as well.

          • Don't use leftover chlorhexidine (Peridex) without speaking to your dentist. In some cases, if your gum disease is severe, you might need to see your dentist for further treatment since chlorhexidine (Peridex) alone might not work so well. If you have symptoms of painful chewing, loose teeth, and bleeding gums, contact your dentist right away.

            • Chlorhexidine (Peridex) might not be safe or effective for children. In small children, taking chlorhexidine (Peridex) by mouth can cause nausea, slurred speech, and slow movement. Don't give your child chlorhexidine (Peridex). If you think that your child might’ve accidentally swallowed chlorhexidine (Peridex), call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away even if you aren't completely sure.

              • Store this medication up and away and out of children's reach and sight. This prevents them from accidentally swallowing medicine that was left out. Always put medication away every time you use it.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Chlorhexidine (Peridex)

                Can I use chlorhexidine (Peridex) every day?
                Yes, the typical dosing for chlorhexidine (Peridex) is to rinse with this mouthwash twice a day, after you've brushed your teeth. Your dentist will let you know how long you need to use it after your dental appointment, but it's usually used short-term (for up to 6 months at a time).
                How long should I use chlorhexidine (Peridex) mouthwash?
                Ask your dentist how long you should be using chlorhexidine (Peridex) after your dental appointment. Typically, chlorhexidine (Peridex) shouldn't be used for longer than 6 months at a time unless directed by your dentist. Using chlorhexidine (Peridex) long-term can raise your risk of side effects, such as staining of your teeth, bacterial resistance to the mouthwash, and severe allergic reactions.
                Are chlorhexidine (Peridex) stains permanent?
                In most cases, chlorhexidine (Peridex) stains aren't permanent and can be prevented with regular teeth brushing and flossing. Because staining is more noticeable in people with plaque buildup, having good dental hygiene can help to lower the risk of stains. Additionally, in clinical studies, only 15% of people experience heavy staining. Keep in mind that chlorhexidine (Peridex) stains are harmless. So even if regular brushing can't remove these stains, it won't affect your dental health in any way. Most chlorhexidine (Peridex) stains can be taken care of by professional cleaning. Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you have concerns about stains on your teeth.
                How to remove chlorhexidine (Peridex) stains from teeth?
                Chlorhexidine (Peridex) can cause brown staining of your teeth, dental fillings, and tongue. The risk is higher if you have a lot of plaque buildup on your teeth or gum. To lower your risk of staining, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day to prevent plaque buildup. If your stain doesn't go away with regular brushing and flossing, you can also get your teeth professionally cleaned at the dental office.
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                What are the risks and warnings for Chlorhexidine (Peridex)?

                Chlorhexidine (Peridex) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Teeth staining

                • Risk factors: Plaque build-up | Long-term use of chlorhexidine (Peridex)

                  Chlorhexidine (Peridex) can stain your teeth, dental fillings, and your tongue. The stains are harmless and usually form where there is a lot of plaque. Typically, these stains either go away by themselves or they can be removed by your dentist. Make sure to brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly for cleanings.

                  risk-warning

                  Change in taste

                  During treatment with chlorhexidine (Peridex), your taste buds might change temporarily. In particular, you might have a more difficult time tasting salty and bitter flavors. In addition, chlorhexidine (Peridex) itself also has a bitter aftertaste. If your taste buds haven't recovered after stopping chlorhexidine (Peridex), talk to your dentist.

                  risk-warning

                  Plaque build-up

                  Some people using chlorhexidine (Peridex) may have more plaque buildup on their teeth. This can lead to gum diseases, which can cause gum bleeding and swelling. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. You should also see your dentist at least every 6 months for teeth cleanings and checkups so the plaque can be removed. If you have a serious gum infection or severe gum disease, your dentist might need to give you further treatments in addition to chlorhexidine (Peridex).

                  risk-warning

                  Allergic reactions

                  • Risk factor: History of allergy to products containing chlorhexidine

                    Although rare, chlorhexidine (Peridex) can cause severe and sometimes deadly allergic reactions. If you experience symptoms such as a rash, itchy skin, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face or throat, stomach upset, or diarrhea while using chlorhexidine (Peridex), stop this medication and get medical attention right away.

                    dosage

                    Chlorhexidine (Peridex) dosage forms

                    The average cost for 1 bottle of 473ml of 0.12% of Chlorhexidine (Peridex) is $8.88 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 51.31% off the average retail price of $18.24.
                    bottle of rinse
                    Bottle of rinse
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    118ml of 0.12%1 bottle$4.09$4.09
                    473ml of 0.12%1 bottle$8.88$8.88

                    Typical dosing for Chlorhexidine (Peridex)

                    • Adults: The typical dose is 15 mL swished around the mouth for 30 seconds and then spit out 2 times a day. Do this after toothbrushing in the morning and evening.

                    Reviews

                    Chlorhexidine (Peridex) Reviews

                    GoodRx has partnered with PatientsLikeMe to provide reviews on the different aspects of Chlorhexidine (Peridex).

                    Effectiveness

                    Learn more about the effectiveness of Chlorhexidine (Peridex) based on real life experiences.

                    Overall Rating

                    Based on 1 people taking this medication

                    5

                    Effectiveness by condition:

                    periodontal disease1 reviews

                    5.0

                    Side effects
                    Learn more about the side effects others have reported while taking Chlorhexidine (Peridex).

                    Severity of side effects

                    Based on 7 people taking this medication

                    None

                    72%

                    Mild

                    15%

                    Moderate

                    15%

                    Severe

                    0%

                    0%

                    50%

                    100%

                    Top side effects

                    Based on 7 people taking this medication

                    Tooth discoloration

                    29%

                    Usage
                    Review why people stop taking this medication and how long they take it.

                    Reasons people stopped taking Chlorhexidine (Peridex)

                    Based on 13 people who have taken this medication

                    Course of treatment ended

                    100%

                    How long people take Chlorhexidine (Peridex)

                    Based on 13 people taking this medication

                    10+ years

                    47%

                    5 to <10 years

                    54%

                    0%

                    50%

                    100%

                    Powered by:Patients Like Me logo
                    interactions

                    Interactions between Chlorhexidine (Peridex) and other drugs

                    Chlorhexidine (Peridex) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Chlorhexidine (Peridex). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

                    drug-cost

                    How much does Chlorhexidine (Peridex) cost?

                    To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                    Peridex (brand)
                    GoodRx lowest price

                    $4.09

                    (save 92.50%)
                    Chlorhexidine (Peridex) (generic)
                    GoodRx lowest price

                    $4.09

                    (save 77.58%)
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                    images

                    Chlorhexidine (Peridex) images

                    This medicine is Colorless Bottle Of Rinse.
                    blue - Chlorhexidine Gluconate 0.12% Rinse
                    This medicine is Blue Bottle Of Rinse.blue - Chlorhexidine Gluconate 0.12% Rinse

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                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    American Dental Association. (2021). Floss/interdental cleaners.

                    American Dental Association Division of Science. (2011). What is gum disease? The Journal of the American Dental Association.

                    American Dental Association Division of Science. (2015). Keeping your gums healthy. The Journal of the American Dental Association.

                    View All References (13)

                    Brookes, Z. L. S., et al. (2020). Current uses of chlorhexidine for management of oral disease: A narrative review. Journal of Dentistry.

                    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013). Periodontal disease.

                    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Put your medicines up and away and out of sight.

                    Chartwell RX, LLC. (2023). Chlorhexidine gluconate 0.12% oral rinse- chlorhexidine gluconate 0.12% oral rinse solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    Frank, M. E., et al. (2001). Effects of chlorhexidine on human taste perception. Physiology & Behavior.

                    Henry Schein, Inc. (2023). Acclean chlorhexidine gluconate 0.12% oral rinse- chlorhexidine gluconate solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care. (2020). Gingivitis and periodontitis: Overview.

                    Marinone, M. G., et al. (2000). Chlorhexidine and taste. Influence of mouthwashes concentration and of rinsing time. Minerva Stomatologica.

                    MedlinePlus. (2022). Plaque and tartar on teeth.

                    MouthHealthy. (n.d.) Plaque [video]. American Dental Association.

                    MouthHealthy. (2021). Mouthrinse (mouthwash). American Dental Association.

                    Poppolo Deus, F., et al. (2022). Chlorhexidine in dentistry: Pharmacology, uses, and adverse effects. International Dental Journal.

                    Soto, P. (n.d.). Chlorhexidine adverse effects. Poison Control, National Capital Poison Center.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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