Beware of this antiseptic present in certain toothpastes

Serious allergic reactions to chlorhexidine are increasing, according to the National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM). This antiseptic is used “mainly for skin use or in the form of mouthwashes, oral spray solutions, lozenges, eye drops, or urological gels. according to the ANSM. But he is also present in the composition of certain toothpastes as well as in certain cosmetics as a conservative. The ANSM advises consumers to consult the packaging or instructions of the products concerned to check whether or not they contain chlorhexidine.

Although they remain rare, allergic reactions to chlorhexidine “usually occur within an hour“ its use. “They manifest themselves by hives, facial swelling and difficulty breathing, or even anaphylactic shock“, indicates the ANSM. Other symptoms may also occur, such as swelling of the lips, tongue or throat; a rash with redness and itching; a feeling of weakness and dizziness; a strange metallic taste in the mouth; a fainting spell. If these reactions occur, those affected should immediatelytry to take chlorhexidine and call 15.

Chlorhexidine: how to avoid allergic reactions?

Consuming chlorhexidine is therefore not without risks. To limit them, the ANSM advises not to use it as a first disinfectant at homeand opt for the simplest solution: “In fact, washing with clean water and soap is the priority action to carry out to clean a superficial wound: scrape, abrasion, shallow and small cut, small superficial burn.“ People who have ever had an allergic reaction or think they are allergic to chlorhexidine are also invited to notify their nurse, pharmacist, doctor, surgeon or dentist.

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Passionate about writing, Floréane is interested in a wide variety of subjects. When she is not writing about current affairs, the environment or gender issues, she takes refuge under a blanket…