Hexidine

Mouthwash
USUALLY SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Hexidine is a mouthwash that contains Chlorhexidine 0.2%. Chlorhexidine is a antiseptic: kills germs in the mouth (mouthwash) or on skin and wounds.

Ingredient (salt)Amount
Chlorhexidine0.2%

What it is used for

Kills germs in the mouth (mouthwash) or on skin and wounds.

How it works

An antiseptic that kills a wide range of bacteria on skin, wounds and in the mouth.

How to take it

Mouthwash: rinse with 10 ml for 1 minute twice a day, 30 minutes apart from toothpaste. Skin: use as directed; keep out of ears and eyes.

Common side effects

  • Brown staining of teeth and tongue
  • Altered taste (mouthwash)
  • Skin irritation

Get medical help straight away if

Swelling of the face or breathing trouble (rare severe allergy)

Be careful

Mouthwash can stain teeth with long use; do not swallow.

Other medicines and interactions

Toothpaste ingredients can inactivate it; leave a gap.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Safe to use in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Common questions

What is Hexidine?

Hexidine is a mouthwash containing Chlorhexidine 0.2%.

What is Hexidine used for?

Kills germs in the mouth (mouthwash) or on skin and wounds.

How should I take Hexidine?

Mouthwash: rinse with 10 ml for 1 minute twice a day, 30 minutes apart from toothpaste. Skin: use as directed; keep out of ears and eyes. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.

What are the side effects of Hexidine?

Common side effects include: Brown staining of teeth and tongue, altered taste (mouthwash), skin irritation. Get medical help straight away for: Swelling of the face or breathing trouble (rare severe allergy).

Does Hexidine need a prescription?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Can I take Hexidine in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Safe to use in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What are the substitutes for Hexidine?

We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.