Seeking: Highly Effective Antimicrobial Alternatives to Chlorhexidine (CHX) Without the Side Effects

  • Lacer, S.A
  • From Spain
  • Responsive
  • Project Size Range : Strategic project backed by large scale funding €
  • Deadline at 30/11/2026

Desired outcome

Lacer seeks substitute ingredients or formulations that deliver the same antiseptic efficacy as Chlorhexidine (CHX). The solution must reduce plaque and gingivitis with significantly fewer side effects, primarily targeting lower cytotoxicity and a strict absence of staining.

We prefer an ingredient or mix of ingredients to add to existing formulations, but finished products will also be evaluated if all requirements are met.

Lacer is open to Joint Development, Licensing, and Exclusivity agreements. We are actively seeking to collaborate with:
Biotechnology industries and startups.
Healthcare industries and companies.
Ingredient suppliers.
Universities and research centers

Background : Chlorhexidine is a highly effective antimicrobial in oral care with a broad spectrum of action. It binds to the oral mucosa for continuous release over 5-7 hours, prolonging its effect. Despite solid clinical evidence reducing plaque and gingivitis, CHX is associated with tooth staining, taste alteration, non-selective antibacterial action, and mucosal irritation. These side effects limit consumer acceptance and generally restrict usage to a short-term 1-2 week period.
The CHX market is highly commoditized and relies heavily on professional dentist recommendations. Current industry standards often use CHX at 0.12% or 0.2% combined with additional ingredients like CPC, cymenol, or allantoin to drive these recommendations. A truly differentiated alternative that delivers efficacy without side effects will drastically lower the barrier to entry and increase market share.

Lacer, S.A

Details of the Innovation Need

Must-Have Requirements

  • Maturity:The proposed solution must be at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of > 5.
  • Efficacy Benchmarking:Chlorhexidine is established as the gold standard benchmark for all innovation ideas. Efficacy will be compared against CHX, utilizing public data on chlorhexidine usage as the primary reference point.
  • In Vitro Proof:Solutions must demonstrate in vitro efficacy using multispecies biofilm models.
  • Mandatory Non-Staining:The absence of staining is a mandatory requirement; submissions must include in vitro data proving minimal to no tooth staining.
  • Sensorial Profile: The formulation must possess acceptable sensorial and organoleptic characteristics. Specifically, the solution must strictly avoid any bitterness or metallic taste.
  • Format Stability: The technology must maintain good stability and solubility in a liquid format, such as a mouthwash.
  • Viability:Solutions must be scalable, cost-effective, and possess a positive consumer safety profile.
  • Geographical & Regulatory Scope:The regulatory and commercial focus includes the European Union, Spain, and Latin America. Ingredients must meet cosmetic legislation, specifically requiring AEMPS approval for personal care products in Spain.

Nice-to-Haves

  • Selective Microbiology:Alternatives should ideally possess a selective microbiology profile, supported by clear microbiome studies.
  • Complementary Innovations:The challenge is inclusive of potential tools from other industries, such as cosmetic tools, that could complement current products.

Discarded solutions

  • Oxygen & Percarbonate: Oxygen technologies or percarbonate combinations

Possible solution areas

  • Ingredient industries | Biotechnology | Healthcare | Medical devices | Antimicrobial | Chlorhexidine alternative | Oral Care | Mouthwash Formulation

Related Keywords

  • Pharmaceutics
  • Care, Hygiene, Beauty, Cosmetics
  • Biological Sciences
  • Medical Technology / Biomedical Engineering
  • Biology / Biotechnology
  • Health care
  • Other Medical/Health Related
  • oral care

About Lacer, S.A

Lacer S.A is a pharmaceutical laboratory firmly committed to public health. Our research and services focus on improving people's well-being and quality of life.

Lacer, S.A

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