Uses of Peridex:

• It is used to treat or prevent mouth infections.
• It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Peridex?

• If you are allergic to Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)); any part of Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.

This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Peridex?

• Tell all of your health care providers that you take Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• Take good care of your teeth. See a dentist often.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.

How is this medicine (Peridex) best taken?

Use Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

Oral rinse:

• Brush and floss your teeth before rinsing. Rinse with 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)) for 30 seconds.
• Do not swallow Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)).
• Rinse 2 times a day, in the morning and in the evening.
• Do not eat, brush teeth, or rinse with water or other mouthwash right after using Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)).

Oral chip:

• Your doctor will give Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)).
• Do not floss close to where the chip was placed for 10 days.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Use a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
• Do not use 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
• Many times Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)) is used on an as needed basis. Do not use more often than told by the doctor.

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Very bad gum pain or swelling.
• Numbness or tingling in the mouth.

What are some other side effects of Peridex?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Mouth irritation.
• Staining of the mouth, teeth, or fillings.
• Change in taste. Rarely, this may not go away.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Peridex?

• Store at room temperature.
• Protect from heat.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

• If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
• Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
• Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate (oral)), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.