Chlorhexidine Gluconate is a chemical antiseptic, to combat both gram positive and gram negative microbes. It is both bacteriostatic and bacteriocidal.

The mechanism of action is believed to be membrane disruption, and not ATPase inactivation as previously thought.

Products containing Chlorhexidine Gluconate in high concentrations must be kept away from eyes (corneal ulcers) and the inner ear (deafness), although it is used in minute concentrations in some contact lens solutions. In some countries it is available by prescription only.