Chlorhexidine is a bactericidal cationic antiseptic. It acts by destroying the cell membrane and precipitating the cell cytoplasm. It has been shown that chlorhexidine binds on to the hydroxyapatite of tooth enamel, onto the pellicle of the tooth surface and on to salivary mucins. It slowly desorbs from these sites to exert a prolonged bactericidal effect for several hours. Benzocaine has mild local anaesthetic properties.It is indicated for temporary relief of pain and discomfort in sore throats due to cold (and accompanying tickling cough). It is also recommended for minor mouth irritations.
