chlorhexidine digluconate + povidone iodine

Chlorhexidine digluconate + povidone iodine is an antiseptic combination investigated by King Abdulaziz University for the reduction of SARS-CoV-2 viral load in the oral cavity of COVID-19 patients. Chlorhexidine digluconate is a biguanide antiseptic that acts by disrupting the viral envelope and microbial cell membranes, while povidone iodine is an iodophor that releases free iodine to oxidize essential viral proteins and nucleic acids. This combination is typically administered as an over-the-counter mouthwash or lozenge to minimize the risk of viral transmission, particularly during aerosol-generating dental procedures. Although evaluated in separate arms in clinical trials like NCT04449679, the use of these agents aims to decrease the salivary reservoir of the virus in infected individuals.

Other names

Chlorhexidine and Povidone Iodine for COVID-19 Viral Load Reduction