The National Medicines Safety Agency has noted an increase in the number of serious allergic reactions to chlorhexidine. ANSM warns against the use of this disinfectant.
The National Agency for the Safety of Medicines (ANSM) warns of the risk of potentially serious allergic reactions to chlorhexidine, an antiseptic used in the composition of many products.
Found in mouthwashes, toothpastes or cosmetics
Chlorhexidine is a broad-spectrum bactericidal antiseptic mainly used for cutaneous use or in the form of a mouthwash. But it is also used in the formulation of many other products such as lozenges, eye drops, or urinary gels. It is found in hygiene products (some toothpastes, for example) and in some cosmetics (sometimes used as a preservative).
The use will not be free of risks
But its use will not be without risks. “We are observing a continuing increase in the number of reports of serious allergic reactions associated with chlorhexidine,” warns ANSM. “Such reactions, which remain rare, generally occur within an hour of chlorhexidine use.”
When do you call number 15?
If you develop allergy symptoms after using chlorhexidine (swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat; skin rash with redness and itching; wheezing or difficulty breathing; feeling weak and dizzy; strange metallic taste in the mouth…), immediately call 15 for emergency advice .
Packaging width
Finally, if you have already had or think you have had an allergic reaction to chlorhexidine, to find out if your products contain it, the first step is to consult their composition on the packaging or instructions or talk to your pharmacist.
