Chlorhexidine

Chlorhexidine Gluconate is an antiseptic used as an active ingredient in mouthwash designed to kill dental plaque and other oral bacteria. In some countries it is available by prescription only. It is sometimes marketed under the brand names Peridex, Periochip, Periogard Oral Rinse or in the UK Corsodyl or Chlorohex. Chlorhexidine Gluconate-based products are usually utilized to combat or prevent gum diseases such as gingivitis. more...

Chlorhexidine Gluconate is also used in non-dental applications, most notably under the brand name Hibiclens, to combat microbes. It is used for general skin cleansing, a surgical scrub and a pre-operative skin preparation. Due to other chemicals listed as inactive ingredients, Hibiclens is not suitable for use as mouthwash.

Known to be deactivated by fluoride, Chlorhexidine Gluconate mouth rinses should be taken at least 30 minutes after using fluoridated oral products (e.g, toothpaste and mouthwash). For best effectiveness, food, drink, and mouth rinses should be avoided for at least one hour after use. However, mouthwashes formulations containing both chlorhexidine digluconate and fluoride have been found to be effective.

Read more at Wikipedia.org