Chlorhexidine Gluconate

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jul 11, 2022

Common Questions


Common Questions about Chlorhexidine


Is chlorhexidine an antibiotic?

No, chlorhexidine is not an antibiotic. It is an antiseptic oral rinse.



Can you buy chlorhexidine mouthwash over the counter?

No, chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is only available by prescription from a medical doctor or dentist.



Is Listerine a chlorhexidine mouthwash?

No, Listerine does not contain chlorhexidine. Listerine is an over-the-counter mouthwash. Chlorhexidine is a prescription oral rinse.



Can you use chlorhexidine long-term?

You should not use chlorhexidine for longer than 6 months. Long-term use of chlorhexidine increases the risk of taste changes and staining of the teeth. Use beyond 6 months has not been found to be more effective.



How to get rid of chlorhexidine stains?

Chlorhexidine can stain your dental fillings, tongue, and teeth, especially in areas of tartar buildup. You can reduce the risk of chlorhexidine stains by brushing regularly. The stains may go away on their own, or a dentist can remove them with professional cleaning. 



What is the price of chlorhexidine without insurance?

Without insurance, chlorhexidine can be as high as $21.00, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $8.10 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions of chlorhexidine like Peridex. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of chlorhexidine with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on chlorhexidine—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.  You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for chlorhexidine. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.