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Chlorhexidine feeding and its effect on growth and intestinal microflora in rats
Abstract:
Chlorhexidine digluconate was administered to rats by incorporating the drug in drinking water and by regular gastric intubation. Incorporating the drug in the drinking water resulted in feed and water rejection. Relatively high doses (30 mg/day) could be administered over a period of 30 to 45 days without apparent effect on feed and water intake and growth. The total number of bacteria as well as the number of colony-forming units from cecal samples were determined. Chlorhexidine intake did not reduce the cultivable or total intestinal flora.
Insights
This study found that chlorhexidine digluconate, even at high doses, did not reduce the intestinal flora in rats. However, incorporating it into drinking water led to rejection, suggesting alternative administration methods are needed for effective use.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Chlorhexidine digluconate is a widely used antiseptic.
- Its effects on the intestinal microbiome are not fully understood.
- Understanding its impact is crucial for safe and effective therapeutic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of chlorhexidine digluconate administration on the intestinal flora of rats.
- To determine safe dosage and administration routes for long-term studies.
Main Methods:
- Rats were administered chlorhexidine digluconate via drinking water and gastric intubation.
- Different doses (up to 30 mg/day) were tested over 30-45 days.
- Total bacterial counts and colony-forming units from cecal samples were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Drinking water administration led to feed and water rejection.
- High doses (30 mg/day) over 30-45 days did not affect feed/water intake or growth.
- Chlorhexidine intake did not reduce cultivable or total intestinal flora.
Conclusions:
- Chlorhexidine digluconate can be administered at relatively high doses without altering the intestinal flora.
- Administration via drinking water is not ideal due to palatability issues.
- Further research can explore its use in animal models without concerns for microbiome disruption.