Dermatopharmacology of a new combination gel formulation for the topical treatment of acne

A topical gel formulation has recently become available that stably combines 5% benzoyl peroxide and 1% clindamycin as phosphate, providing a convenient and effective multimodal therapy for acne vulgaris. A series of clinical investigations demonstrated that systemic exposure to clindamycin and degradation of clindamycin by the highly reactive benzoyl peroxide is minimal following a single application of the new formulation. Furthermore, the combination gel was similar to benzoyl peroxide in its irritation potential and ability to induce contact sensitization and has no phototoxic or photosensitization potential.