Hibiclens is used to treat and prevent MRSA in addition to cleaning wounds and skin. It is an antiseptic antimicrobial skin cleanser possessing bactericidal activities, manufactured by Mölnlycke Health Care. It is mainly used in the United States by personnel working in medical facilities and other high population environments because it not only an effective disinfectant, it also will continue to kill bacteria for up to 5 hours after applying. Directions for its use should be followed to prevent the mutation and reproduction of bacteria. There are some side effects that may be experienced with its use and caution must be used when using it because it is highly flammable.
About
The generic name for Hibiclens is Chlorhexidine topical. It is also known as Betasept, Biopatch, Calgon Vesta, Chlorostat, Chlorostat 4, Dyna-Hex, PerioChip, and Spectrum-4. This product fights bacterial infections. It is used to treat existing wounds and to prevent infection during surgeries or other medical procedures. The ingredients include the following:
- Chlorhexidine gluconate-active ingredient
- Isopropyl alcohol-active ingredient
- Red 40 dye-non-active ingredient
- Fragrance-non-active ingredient
- Purified water-non-active ingredient
Some people may have serious allergic reactions to Hibiclens. MRSA patients commonly treat only the infected area with Hibiclens. This will reduce the risk of the bacteria mutating and becoming resistant to antibiotic treatment. Its use can have some side effects.
Side Effects
Some people find their skin dries out with Hibiclens use. This can increase the risk of infections because the dry skin can have cracks and breaks in the surface that will allow the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria to enter the body. Other side effects include the following:
- Blistering
- Redness
- Severe pain
- Itching
- Swelling
- Rash
Extra caution should be taken to avoid getting Hibiclens in the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, vagina, and rectum. It can cause serious side effects including corneal damage or deafness.
MRSA Risks
Though Mibiclens use can prevent the spread of MRSA and kill different types of bacteria, it can also increase the risk of getting it. When any antibacterial is overused, it can cause the bacteria to mutate and develop resistant strains. Since it is alcohol based, some believe there is less chance of that happening. When it is used to treat an infection, it is often recommended to just use it on just the area that is affected by the infection. Safety procedures will need to be followed when using Hibiclens.
Safety
Liquid Hibiclens is highly flammable because of the alcohol content, so precautions should be used to avoid a fire when using it in treatment for MRSA. Hibiclens should not be disposed of in drains, sewers, or watercourses. Absorbent material should be used when cleaning up spills. Excessive inhalation of the fumes can cause headache, fatigue, dizziness, lack of coordination, and unconsciousness. The vapors can also irritate eyes and lungs.