The Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) observed a “constant increase in the number of reports of serious allergic reactions associated with chlorhexidine”, a bactericidal antiseptic, and urged on Thursday not to use it as the first disinfectant at home.
“Many people in France are exposed to it, which increases the risk of sensitization and, consequently, the risk of an immediate and serious allergic reaction,” stresses the ANSM.
The agency specifies that “this type of reaction, which however remains rare, generally occurs within one hour after the use of chlorhexidine.”
A molecule present in many hygiene products.
Among these possible allergic reactions: hives, swelling of the face and difficulty breathing, or even anaphylactic shock, an extremely violent allergic reaction that constitutes an absolute medical emergency.
Chlorhexidine is part of many products. It is used as an antiseptic, mainly for skin use or in the form of mouthwashes, oral spray solutions, lozenges, eye drops or urological gels.
Finally, it is present in hygiene products (certain toothpastes, for example) and in certain cosmetics (sometimes used as a preservative).
Different possible alternatives
To reduce the risk of allergy, the ANSM advises not to use it as a disinfectant at home.
“Washing with clean water and soap is the priority action to take to clean a superficial wound,” adds the ANSM.
If an allergy to chlorhexidine has already occurred, the agency recommends that you notify your nurse, pharmacist, doctor, surgeon, or dentist. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to offer alternatives to chlorhexidine to their patients.
“Depending on the type of treatment provided, povidone-iodine, chlorinated derivatives (sodium hypochlorite), and modified alcohol are among the alternatives to chlorhexidine that may be offered,” the agency writes in its publication.
Source: BFM TV
