title: [Chlorhexidine: the ideal antiseptic].
abstract: This article is a extensive bibliographical review about the characteristics of chlorhexidine as a cutaneous antiseptic. This antiseptic belongs to the biguanides (metformin) group and is very active against a large number of micro-organisms. Its systemic absorption is practically null, thus, it lacks any systemic toxicity. As a cutaneous antiseptic it has a rapid, long-lasting effect and is not inactive in the presence of organic matter and, due to its transparency it does not hide the evolution of wounds. Due to these properties, its recommendations for use have grown and consolidated over time until it has converted into one of the most effective, active and safe antiseptics for daily clinical practice.
authors.affiliation: Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona. nibanezm@santpau.es
authors.forename: Núria
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Ibáñez
authors.forename: Núria
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Casamada
mesh_terms: D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002710:Chlorhexidine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D016106:Methicillin Resistance / Q000187:drug effects*
chemical_list: D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local; D002710:Chlorhexidine