Most of the information on chlorhexidine has been covered earlier in this thread, and I definitely agree that it is a great bactericidal product. As mentioned, one of the great characteristics of it is that it has better residual activity than about anything else, even longer than Betadine, Roccal, or Amphyl. Typical diluted concentrations for direct use are 0.05% for chlorhexidine diacetate and 0.12% for chlorhexidine gluconate. While not a big issue, it should be diluted with distilled water if possible because it is inactivated by water containing chlorides, but not chlorine. Many tap waters have a slight chloride concentration, although if used that same day, the tap water should have minimal effect. It is also effective for only surface wounds and will be ineffective against deep tissue infections. Both chlorhexidine diacetate and chlorhexidine gluconate are active against some viruses, but the diacetate form has a wider range of virucidal activity. Also, better virucidal activity of the gluconate form is realized at slightly higher concentrations than the standard 0.12% standard concentration, and that might account for the comments in the Bean Farm ad. Additionally, Listerine will have little effect on the bacteria in an actual infected wound, as it is basically only good for cleansing uninfected tissue. Watch this wound carefully so as to spot any advance of the infection as soon as it occurs.

Kelly

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