What is Benzaclin? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Benzaclin overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Onexton, Acanya, Benzaclin, Neuac, Onexton, Onexton, Neuac

Generic Names:

  • Clindamycin Phos-Benzoyl Perox

Uses:

  • Treats acne.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antiacne, Antibacterial

Forms:

  • Gel/Jelly

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is Benzaclin used for?

Benzaclin is a topical acne agent used to treat acne. It contains benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin. Clindamycin is an antibiotic used to inhibit the growth of bacteria on the skin and benzoyl peroxide is decreases oil production on the skin. Benzaclin is safe to use by children 12 years and older and is available as a gel.

What form(s) does Benzaclin come in?

  • Gel/Jelly

What are common Benzaclin dosages?

  • Jar 25GM of 1-5%

Benzaclin images - What does Benzaclin look like?

  • BenzaClin
    25gm of 1-5% jar

How to take Benzaclin

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Before you apply this medicine, wash your skin gently with warm water and pat it dry.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Throw away any unused Duac® gel after 60 days or Acanya® gel after 10 weeks.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Before you apply this medicine, wash your skin gently with warm water and pat it dry.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Throw away any unused Duac® gel after 60 days or Acanya® gel after 10 weeks.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

What to do if you miss a dose of Benzaclin

Benzaclin contraindications - Who shouldn't take Benzaclin?

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, or lincomycin, or if you have a history of bowel problems such as ulcerative colitis or severe diarrhea caused by antibiotics.

Benzaclin warnings

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • This medicine can cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe, does not stop, or is bloody. Do not take any medicine to stop diarrhea until you have talked to your doctor. Diarrhea can occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Do not get the medicine on your hair or any colored fabric. This medicine may cause bleaching.

Benzaclin interactions & what to avoid when taking Benzaclin

  • Some medicines can affect how benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin works. Tell your doctor if you are using the following: ErythromycinProducts that contain sulfone

  • This medicine can cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe, does not stop, or is bloody. Do not take any medicine to stop diarrhea until you have talked to your doctor. Diarrhea can occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Do not get the medicine on your hair or any colored fabric. This medicine may cause bleaching.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Benzaclin side effects - How does Benzaclin make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Severe diarrhea or diarrhea that contains blood, abdominal pain or cramps

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Dry skin, rash, itching, redness, or peeling skin where you apply the medicine

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