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Topical antibiotic + BPO (acne)

Benzoyl peroxide with clindamycin

Brand names: Duac, Acnecide

This fixed-combination topical gel pairs benzoyl peroxide with the antibiotic clindamycin for mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Clindamycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis against Cutibacterium acnes while benzoyl peroxide provides complementary bactericidal and keratolytic action and limits emergence of antibiotic resistance.

Prescribing in practice

  • Combining the antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance, and topical antibiotics should not be used as monotherapy or for prolonged courses.
  • Benzoyl peroxide bleaches hair and dyed fabrics, so warn patients about contact with clothing and bedding.
  • Local irritation, dryness and peeling are common; avoid the eyes, lips and mucous membranes.

Monitoring

No laboratory monitoring is required; review skin tolerability and acne response, and limit the duration of antibiotic use.

Counselling the patient

  • Apply to clean, dry skin as directed and avoid the eyes and mouth.
  • It may bleach coloured fabrics, towels, bedding and hair.
  • Use for the recommended period only and use sun protection as skin may be more sun-sensitive.

Evidence & guidelines

NICE recommends fixed combinations of a topical antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide for acne, advising against topical antibiotic monotherapy to limit resistance.

Reference: NICE NG198; BAD; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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