Antiseptic / Disinfectant
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a liquid antiseptic solution that combines two germ-killing ingredients: chlorhexidine gluconate and cetrimide, which work together to destroy bacteria and other germs on the skin and surfaces, preventing infections.
Disrupts bacterial and fungal cell membranes by denaturing proteins and precipitating nucleic acids, while cetrimide enhances membrane permeability through surfactant action, resulting in rapid microbial death across gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.
Cleaning wounds and cuts, preventing wound infections, cleaning skin before surgery or injections, general antiseptic use for the body, first aid treatment for minor burns and scrapes
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
Since this is used as needed for cleaning wounds or skin, there is no fixed dosing schedule to miss. Simply use it whenever you need to clean a wound or disinfect your skin.
Always dilute the concentrate before use, as applying it undiluted can burn or irritate your skin. Buy only from reputable pharmacies and check the expiry date, as fake or expired antiseptics will not protect you from infections. Keep away from children, and if a child swallows it, take them to the hospital immediately with the bottle.
Do not mix with soap, as soap can reduce the germ-killing power of chlorhexidine; rinse off soap first before applying the antiseptic. Do not use together with iodine-based antiseptics like Betadine on the same wound, as they can interfere with each other.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Chlorhexidine with your other drugs?
Generally safe for external use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but avoid applying it near the breast area if you are breastfeeding, so the baby does not accidentally ingest it.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed after each use. Store out of reach of children, as this solution is poisonous if swallowed. Do not store near food or drinks to avoid accidental ingestion.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.