Chlorhexidine

Chlorhexidine

CAS 55-56-1Pharma intermediatesCHLORC22H30Cl2N10

Specifications

CAS No.
55-56-1
Molecular formula
C22H30Cl2N10
Molecular weight
505.45
Melting point
134-136°C
Boiling point
Approximately 641°C (rough estimate)

Appearance & character

White to off-white crystalline powder. It is the free base form of chlorhexidine, a bisbiguanide antimicrobial compound.

Product overview

Chlorhexidine is a cationic broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent belonging to the bis(biguanide) family, with the chemical formula C22H30Cl2N10 and molecular weight of 505.45 g/mol. Also known as chlorhexidine base, it is the parent compound from which various salt forms (acetate, gluconate, hydrochloride) are derived. Chlorhexidine acts by destabilizing bacterial cell membranes, leading to leakage of intracellular components and cell death. It is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with particularly strong activity against Gram-positive organisms. It is widely used in healthcare, personal care, and industrial applications.

Key features

  • Broad-spectrum antibacterial activity
  • Cationic compound with strong binding to bacterial membranes
  • Low water solubility in base form (salts have better solubility)
  • Effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
  • Persistent antimicrobial effect with residual activity
  • Low systemic toxicity
  • Bitter taste characteristic
  • Stable under proper storage conditions.

Applications

Pharmaceutical industry
raw material for manufacturing chlorhexidine salts (acetate, gluconate, hydrochloride)
Medical applications
antiseptic and disinfectant for skin, wounds, and instruments
Dental care
active ingredient in mouthwashes and dental products
Veterinary medicine
antiseptic for animal care, wound treatment, and surgical procedures
Personal care
preservative and antimicrobial agent in cosmetics and toiletries
Industrial
disinfectant for industrial surfaces and equipment
Research
biochemical tool and reference standard for analytical methods
Household
antimicrobial ingredient in cleaning and hygiene products.
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