Key takeaways
Chlorhexidine (Peridex) and povidone iodine (Betadine) are both antiseptic medications used to kill germs, but they are used for different purposes. Chlorhexidine (Peridex) is an oral rinse prescribed to treat gingivitis, a gum inflammation, while povidone iodine (Betadine) is an over-the-counter topical solution used to prevent skin infections from minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Chlorhexidine is available only by prescription and is typically used twice daily after brushing your teeth, whereas povidone iodine can be applied 1 to 3 times daily as needed. Chlorhexidine can cause side effects like teeth staining and changes in taste, while povidone iodine may cause minor skin irritation. Chlorhexidine is not known to interact with other medications, and povidone iodine should only be used on the skin. Chlorhexidine is available as a lower-cost generic, and povidone iodine is also available as a generic and does not require a prescription.
