Chlorhexidine

 

 

 

 

 

Chlorhexidine developed by Imperial Chemical Industries

 

 

 

 

 

1954

 The Imperial Chemical Industries, Limited publishes an article about a new investigational antimicrobial. The article entitled "1:6-Di-4'-Chlorophenyldiguanidohexane ("Hibitane"). Laboratory Investigation of a New Antibacterial Agent of High Potency" explains the promise of chlorhexidine.

 

 

 

1954 — Chlorhexidine digluconate is first introduced commercially in the United Kingdom as a disinfectant and topical antiseptic.

 

 

 

 

 

 Chlorhexidine Soaps

 

 

 

1970s — Hand washing with chlorhexidine is shown to reduce skin flora by 86% - 92%.

1970s — Chlorhexidine is first introduced into the US.

 

 

 

 

1976 — Chlorhexidine's promise as an oral agent is first realized. It demonstrates its ability to inhibit the formation and development of plaque. The antiseptic is the most effective and safest anti-plaque agent to date, and is indicated for use in the general population and in high risk groups of patients.

1981 — The first urology lubricant with chlorhexidine is cleared by the FDA.

1988 — The first chlorhexidine and alcohol skin preparation combination is launched in the U.S.

 

 

 

1992 — The first chlorhexidine-based vascular access catheter becomes commercially available. It is impregnated with chlorhexidine and silver sulfadiazine.

 

1993 — The first chlorhexidine sponge dressing is cleared by the FDA.

 

2001 — Chlorhexidine is added to a ventilator bundle with comprehensive oral care.

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010 — The first chlorhexidine-impregnated needless connectors are cleared by the FDA.

2010 — The first chlorhexidine-impregnanted Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) is cleared as an antimicrobial catheter.

 

 

 

2012 — The first chlorhexidine-based PICC is cleared by the FDA as an antithrombogenic catheter in addition to its antimicrobial indication.

 

 

 

 

Snapshot