CHLORHEXIDINE Meaning and
Definition
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Chlorhexidine is a chemical compound and antiseptic agent commonly used for its disinfectant properties. It is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that effectively kills various microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Chlorhexidine is often found in solutions or gels which are topically applied to the skin or mucous membranes to prevent or treat infections.
Chlorhexidine works by disrupting the cell membranes of microorganisms, interfering with their cellular functions and ultimately leading to their death. It has a long-lasting effect, providing prolonged antimicrobial activity even after application. This makes chlorhexidine particularly useful in medical settings, where it is used to prepare and clean the skin before surgical procedures or injections, as well as to prevent infections in wounds or catheter sites.
In addition to its antiseptic properties, chlorhexidine also possesses anti-plaque activity, making it a common ingredient in mouthwashes and dental products. It can help prevent the formation of dental plaque and reduce the risk of gum diseases like gingivitis.
Despite its effectiveness, chlorhexidine should be used with caution and according to the recommended concentrations, as excessive or prolonged use may lead to adverse effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, or discoloration of teeth or oral surfaces.
Overall, chlorhexidine is a potent antiseptic agent widely used in healthcare settings and dental care products due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and ability to prevent and treat various types of infections.
Common Misspellings for CHLORHEXIDINE
- xhlorhexidine
- vhlorhexidine
- fhlorhexidine
- dhlorhexidine
- cglorhexidine
- cblorhexidine
- cnlorhexidine
- cjlorhexidine
- culorhexidine
- cylorhexidine
- chkorhexidine
- chporhexidine
- choorhexidine
- chlirhexidine
- chlkrhexidine
- chllrhexidine
- chlprhexidine
- chl0rhexidine
- chl9rhexidine
Etymology of CHLORHEXIDINE
The word "chlorhexidine" has its roots in the Greek language. The prefix "chlor-" comes from the Greek word "khloros", meaning "greenish-yellow" or "pale green". The term "hexidine" is derived from the Greek word "hex", which means "six". Therefore, "chlorhexidine" could be translated as "a compound with six chlorine atoms". This is appropriate since "chlorhexidine" is a chemical compound that contains six chlorine atoms.
Similar spelling word for CHLORHEXIDINE
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