Benzaclin (Clindamycin/Benzoyl Peroxide) is a prescription medication used to treat inflammatory acne vulgaris. Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition that occurs when the hair follicles become blocked with dead skin cells, bacteria, and skin oils (sebum). Benzaclin is a combination medicine. The active ingredients in Benzaclin are Clindamycin and Benzoyl Peroxide. Clindamycin belongs to a class of drugs called antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl Peroxide belongs to a class of medications called topical acene agents. It works by killing bacteria that cause acne and by peeling off skin cells. It may take several weeks to months for your acne to improve. The drug has a mild drying effect, allowing excess oil and dirt to be washed away.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Benzaclin from Canada manufactured by Bausch Health and the generic Clindamycin/Benzoyl Peroxide is also available from Canada by a different manufacturer.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Benzaclin. The most common side effects of Benzaclin may include the following:
• Burning;
• Dry skin;
• Itching;
• Redness;
• Skin peeling
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Abdominal cramping;
• Blood or mucus in stool;
• Severe diarrhea
These are not all of the side effects of Benzaclin. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Benzaclin if you are allergic to Clindamycin, Benzoyl Peroxide, or any ingredient in Benzaclin. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have ever had severe diarrhea caused by antibiotics;
• Have inflammation of your intestines;
• Have ulcerative colitis
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Benzaclin and other medicines like erythromycin, cisatracurium, dapsone, tazarotene, etc. Avoid other topical medications with Benzaclin. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if Benzoyl peroxide or Clindamycin will harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Clindamycin or Benzoyl peroxide passes into breast milk or if it may affect a nursing infant. Use Benzaclin precisely as prescribed by your doctor. This drug is a topical medication and should be used on the skin only. Wash your hands before and after applying this drug. Wash your face with a mild cleanser, and pat dry before applying the medicine. Avoid getting the medication into your eyes, mouth, or nose. If this happens, wash with water. Do not apply Benzaclin on sunburned, dry, or chapped skin. It may take several weeks for your symptoms to improve. Do not stop using this medication without talking to your doctor. Benzaclin can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen SPF 30 or higher when outdoors. Throw away any unused Benzaclin gel after 3 months. Store Benzaclin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.