Clindamycin/Benzoyl Peroxide

Available in the form of a gel, clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide is a prescription drug used to treat acne. It is typically applied to the affected area(s) once or twice daily. This combination product contains two active ingredients that work together to kill acne-causing bacteria and soften the outer layer of the skin, thus improving the skin's appearance. Common side effects include itching and dry skin.

What Is Clindamycin/Benzoyl Peroxide?

Clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide (Acanya®, BenzaClin®, Duac®) is a prescription medication approved for the treatment of acne. It comes in the form of a gel that is applied directly to the skin. As the name implies, this medicine contains a combination of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide, two medications commonly used to treat acne.
 
(Click What Is Clindamycin/Benzoyl Peroxide Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems; some people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
 
Some of the more common side effects of this medicine include:
 
  • Redness of the skin
  • Dry skin
  • Peeling skin
  • Itching, burning, or stinging.
     
(Click Clindamycin/Benzoyl Peroxide Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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