Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride

Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride (CAS 3697-42-5), also known as chlorhexidine hydrochloride, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial active used across pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial applications. It delivers effective bactericidal and fungicidal action against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. Procurement teams source it as a primary biocidal ingredient where water-soluble salt forms are required.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it is formulated into antiseptic wound washes, surgical scrubs, and mucous membrane disinfectants. A water-soluble salt form is often preferred over the diacetate or digluconate versions. Personal care producers incorporate it into antibacterial hand washes, medicated shampoos, and oral rinse concentrates targeting microbial control. It functions as a preservative active in various topical formulations.

Industrial water treatment operations use it as a biocide to control microbial growth in cooling systems and process water. It is highly effective where regulatory specifications call for a defined chlorhexidine salt. Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder. Standard grades include pharmaceutical-grade material conforming to BP and Ph. Eur. specifications for global compliance.

Technical grade is also available for industrial and water treatment end uses. Packaging is typically offered in kilogram quantities up to bulk drum supply to suit both formulation-scale and large-volume procurement needs.