More from Germfree
Other strengths and forms by Aristopharma Limited
Indications & Uses
Chlorhexidine Gluconate + Cetrimide solution is used to cleanse and irrigate the skin and dirty wounds, in cases where an added surfactant effect is needed.
Pharmacology
Chlorhexidine
Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic and disinfectant. It works against many vegetative Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms, and against some viruses and some fungi. It doesn't work against bacterial spores at room temperature, and acid-fast bacteria are inhibited but not killed. Chlorhexidine is more active against Gram-positive than Gram-negative bacteria, and some species of Pseudomonas and Proteus are less susceptible. It works best at a neutral or slightly acid pH, and blood and other organic matter may reduce its activity.
Cetrimide
Cetrimide is a quaternary ammonium disinfectant, with the properties you would expect from cationic surfactants. Solutions of these surfactants act as emulsifiers and detergents, and they kill both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, though higher concentrations are needed to kill the Gram-negative ones. Because cetrimide cleans and fights bacteria at the same time, it is useful for cleansing dirty or infected wounds. It is, however, relatively ineffective against bacterial spores, acid-fast bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
Rinse the area to be cleaned with water. Use only the smallest amount of irrigation needed to cover the wound, and wash gently. Then rinse again thoroughly. Apply Chlorhexidine Gluconate + Cetrimide to the wound as necessary, and throw away any solution that is left after use.
Paediatric Use: Use with care in neonates, particularly in premature infants. Chlorhexidine may cause irritation or chemical burns.
Side Effects
Chlorhexidine can cause skin irritation and hypersensitivity reactions. If either of these happens, stop using the medicine. Cetrimide may slow down the healing of wounds.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Chlorhexidine Gluconate + Cetrimide is for external use only. Don't inject it. It is meant for irrigation only. The solution is not isotonic and it is haemolytic. Cetrimide may slow down the wound healing process, so use this antiseptic for infection control and for cleansing wounds, not for general wound management.
Contraindications
Don't use Chlorhexidine Gluconate + Cetrimide if you are known to be allergic to either chlorhexidine or cetrimide. Don't use it to irrigate the brain, meninges, eyes or a perforated eardrum.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Not enough data is available on the use of chlorhexidine and cetrimide in pregnant women. The risk to humans isn't known, but it is most likely very low, because both are poorly absorbed when applied to the skin.
For breastfeeding, it isn't known whether chlorhexidine and cetrimide pass into breast milk, and there is not enough data from women who were breast-feeding while using them. Still, it is unlikely that the products pass into milk, since they are poorly absorbed. As a general precaution, after using the product on the skin, rinse the nipples thoroughly with water before breastfeeding.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Overdose
Swallowing a small amount by accident is unlikely to cause effects in the body, because chlorhexidine and cetrimide are poorly absorbed. High concentrations, though, could irritate the lining of the stomach and gut and cause gastritis. Gastric lavage might be needed, and treatment should be based on the symptoms.
If someone swallows Chlorhexidine Gluconate + Cetrimide, wash out the mouth, give plenty of milk or water to drink, and get medical advice. In case of overdose, seek medical attention or contact a poison control centre.
⚠️ In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Storage
Store below 25°C and keep away from light. This is a single-use product, so throw away any portion you don't use.
Common questions about Germfree 1.5%+15%
What is Germfree 1.5%+15% Solution?
Germfree 1.5%+15% Solution is a medicine that contains Chlorhexidine Gluconate + Cetrimide. It is made by Aristopharma Limited. It belongs to the Chlorhexidine & Chloroxylenol preparations group of medicines.
What is Germfree used for?
Chlorhexidine Gluconate + Cetrimide solution is used to cleanse and irrigate the skin and dirty wounds, in cases where an added surfactant effect is needed.
What are the side effects of Germfree?
Chlorhexidine can cause skin irritation and hypersensitivity reactions. If either of these happens, stop using the medicine.
Can I take Germfree during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Not enough data is available on the use of chlorhexidine and cetrimide in pregnant women. The risk to humans isn't known, but it is most likely very low, because both are poorly absorbed when applied to the skin. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
What happens if I take too much Germfree?
Swallowing a small amount by accident is unlikely to cause effects in the body, because chlorhexidine and cetrimide are poorly absorbed. High concentrations, though, could irritate the lining of the stomach and gut and cause gastritis. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
How should I store Germfree?
Store below 25°C and keep away from light. This is a single-use product, so throw away any portion you don't use.
Do I need a prescription for Germfree?
Germfree is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.