Clindamycin & Benzoyl Peroxide Gel

Clindamycin-benzoyl peroxide gel is a prescription topical medication used to treat acne vulgaris. It combines clindamycin (an antibiotic) with benzoyl peroxide (which helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and unclog pores) in one formulation and is applied directly to the skin.

This treatment is available in different strengths, including 1%/5%, 1.2%/5% and 1.2%/3.75%. The difference lies in the concentration of the active ingredients, which affects how strongly the treatment works. Higher concentrations provide a more intensive treatment, while lower concentrations offer a milder approach.

A licensed healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate formulation and strength based on your individual skin type, medical history, and the severity of your condition.

• Used for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris
• Contains clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide
• Applied to the skin (not taken orally)
• Intended for regular use as prescribed
• Strength and treatment plan are determined by a healthcare provider

Clindamycin-benzoyl perox gel is used on the skin, usually twice daily in the morning and evening, or as directed by your physician. Before applying it, the skin should be gently washed, rinsed with warm water, and patted dry.

This medicine is for dermatologic use only and should not be used in the eyes or on internal surfaces. Using it consistently and only as directed can help support treatment while lowering the chance of unnecessary irritation.

• Apply twice daily, morning and evening, unless your provider tells you otherwise
• Wash, rinse, and pat the skin dry before use
• Use on the affected skin areas only
• Keep it away from the eyes, inside the nose, mouth, and mucous membranes
• Do not use other topical acne products unless your provider directs you to

The most common side effects with Clindamycin-benzoyl perox gel are skin-related and happen where the medicine is applied. These can include dryness, itching, peeling, redness, sunburn, or other application-site reactions.

Although this is a topical product, there are also important safety concerns to know about. Stop using the gel and contact your provider right away if you develop severe diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, or strong stomach cramps. Seek urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling, trouble breathing, or other severe symptoms.

• Common reactions include dry skin, itching, peeling, and redness
• Some people may have an application-site reaction or increased sun sensitivity
• Skin irritation should be monitored, especially if it becomes harder to tolerate
• Severe diarrhea or abdominal cramping should be reported right away
• Serious allergic reactions need immediate medical attention

See Important Safety/Prescribing Information.

You should be careful when combining this gel with other acne treatments. Using multiple products at the same time can increase skin irritation, especially if they contain strong or drying ingredients.

• Avoid combining without provider guidance
• Some products may increase dryness, redness, or peeling
• Do not add new treatments all at once
• Ask your provider how to safely build your routine

If your skin becomes more irritated after adding another product, stop the additional treatment and consult your provider.

No, this gel should only be used on external skin areas. Sensitive areas like the eyes, inside the nose, and mouth can react strongly if exposed.

• Avoid eyes, eyelids, lips, and mucous membranes
• Do not apply inside the nose or mouth
• Rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs
• Apply only to the affected skin areas

If irritation continues after accidental contact, contact your provider for further advice.

This medication can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so extra care is needed if you are frequently outdoors or use tanning beds.

• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps
• Limit time in direct sunlight
• Use sunscreen and protective clothing
• Be cautious during peak sun hours

Yes, protecting your skin from sunlight is an important part of using this medication. Your skin may react more strongly to sun exposure during treatment.

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
• Wear protective clothing when outdoors
• Reapply sunscreen if needed
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure

Taking these steps can help reduce the risk of sunburn or irritation while using the gel.

Skin reactions can happen, especially when starting treatment. If symptoms are mild, your provider may suggest adjusting how often you use the gel or simplifying your routine.

• Avoid using other irritating products
• Consider reducing frequency only if advised
• Use gentle skincare to support your skin
• Stop use and contact your provider if symptoms worsen

If irritation becomes severe or does not improve, seek medical advice or call 911 when it’s a emergency.

These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction and require immediate medical attention. Do not continue using the medication.

• Stop use immediately
• Seek emergency medical care and all 911
• Do not restart without provider approval
• Inform your provider about the reaction

Prompt treatment is important to reduce the risk of complications.

This medication may not be appropriate if you have a history of certain bowel conditions. It’s important to discuss your medical history before starting treatment.

• Inform your provider about any history of colitis
• Some conditions may increase risk of serious side effects
• Your provider may recommend an alternative treatment
• Do not use without proper evaluation

If you develop symptoms like severe diarrhea, stop use and seek care.

No, you should not use this medication if you have a known allergy to lincomycin or any of its components. This could increase the risk of a serious reaction.

• Tell your provider about any known allergies
• Do not use if you’ve had reactions to similar medications
• Alternative treatments may be available
• Seek medical advice before starting

If you experience symptoms after use, stop immediately and seek care.

No, this medication should only be used for the condition your provider prescribed it for. Using it for other skin concerns may not be appropriate and could increase the risk of side effects.

• Use only for the prescribed condition
• Do not share with others
• Do not repurpose for different skin issues
• Contact your provider if your condition changes

If you think you need a different treatment, speak with your provider.

This medication has a limited shelf life after it is prepared. Using it beyond that time may reduce effectiveness.

• Typically should be discarded after 3 months
• Follow the date provided by your pharmacy
• Do not use expired medication
• Ask your pharmacist if you’re unsure

If your medication has expired, contact your provider or pharmacy for next steps.

Clindamycin Phosphate and Benzoyl Peroxide Gel 1%/5% - combination topical antibiotic therapy for inflammatory acne vulgaris, reducing bacteria, inflammation, and clogged pores. / Source: NCBI

Link: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=76795d1b-e1f2-4d1d-b42a-f1d4448c63c0 / Published: March 21, 2024