If you work in a Canadian clinic, surgery centre, or long-term care facility, you have probably seen Stanhexidine on a supply list. This guide explains what Stanhexidine is, how the 2% and 4% formats differ, how it relates to chlorhexidine, and which format fits which clinical use.

What is Stanhexidine?

Stanhexidine is a Canadian-made line of chlorhexidine gluconate antiseptic products from Omega Laboratories. Chlorhexidine gluconate (often shortened to CHG) is a broad-spectrum antiseptic used across healthcare for skin cleansing and disinfection. The Stanhexidine line includes skin cleansers and a ready-to-use aqueous antiseptic solution, and all formats are made in Canada.

Stanhexidine vs chlorhexidine: what is the difference?

This is the most common point of confusion, and the answer is simple: chlorhexidine is the active ingredient, and Stanhexidine is a brand name for products that contain it. Asking “Stanhexidine vs chlorhexidine” is like asking “Tylenol vs acetaminophen.” If a protocol or supply list calls for a chlorhexidine gluconate cleanser or solution at a given concentration, a Stanhexidine product at that same concentration is a chlorhexidine product.

Stanhexidine formats: 2% and 4% compared

Medoptimal stocks three Stanhexidine formats. The right one depends on the concentration and format your clinical protocol calls for.

The practical difference: the cleansers are wash-off products used with water for skin cleansing, while the aqueous solution is a ready-to-use antiseptic liquid with no surfactant, indicated for the treatment of superficial skin infection. The clear blue tint of the aqueous solution makes it easy to see where it has been applied.

How to use Stanhexidine

Always follow the directions on the product label and your facility’s infection-prevention protocol. As a general guide: for the skin cleansers, apply a small amount to the area, lather, and rinse thoroughly. The low-sudsing formula is designed for frequent use without compromising skin integrity. For the aqueous solution, apply to the affected area as directed on the label; it requires no dilution or preparation because it is supplied ready to use.

Is Stanhexidine a soap?

Not in the ordinary sense. People often search for “Stanhexidine soap” because the cleanser is used like a wash, but it is an antiseptic skin cleanser, not a cosmetic soap. Regular soap cleans; a chlorhexidine cleanser cleans and delivers a residual antibacterial effect, which is why it is used for clinical skin preparation rather than everyday washing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Stanhexidine used for?

Stanhexidine products are used for antiseptic skin cleansing in healthcare settings. The cleansers help reduce bacteria on the skin, and the aqueous solution is indicated for the treatment of superficial skin infection. Specific uses depend on the format and your facility’s protocols.

Is Stanhexidine the same as chlorhexidine?

Stanhexidine is a brand of chlorhexidine gluconate products. The active antiseptic ingredient in every Stanhexidine format is chlorhexidine gluconate, at either 2% or 4% depending on the product.

What is the difference between Stanhexidine 2% and 4%?

The number is the concentration of chlorhexidine gluconate. The 4% cleanser carries a higher concentration of the active ingredient than the 2% products. Which concentration is appropriate depends on the clinical task and your protocol, so check the requirement before ordering.

Does Stanhexidine contain alcohol?

The 4% cleanser and the aqueous solution both contain 4% isopropyl alcohol alongside the chlorhexidine gluconate. Check each product label for the full composition.

Where can I buy Stanhexidine in Canada?

Medoptimal stocks the Stanhexidine line for Canadian healthcare facilities, with wholesale pricing available through a free account. Browse our skin and wound disinfectants or contact us for volume pricing.

Ordering for your clinic

Medoptimal supplies Stanhexidine and hundreds of other medical supplies to clinics, surgery centres, and healthcare facilities across Ontario and Canada. Registration is free, and approved accounts see wholesale pricing on every product. If you order antiseptics regularly, send us your current pricing and we will review where we can match or improve it.

This article is provided for general product information and does not replace the product label or professional clinical judgment. See our healthcare blog disclaimer.