Duac (Clindamycin Phosphate & Benzoyl Peroxide)

What is Duac?

Duac is a topical acne medication which is a combination of an antibiotic called Clindamycin and Benzoyl peroxide.

What is Duac used for?

Duac is used to treat inflammatory acne vulgaris and is also indicated for lessening the amount of acne (pimples) on the face.

How does Duac work?

Clindamycin in Duac impedes the growth of acne causing bacteria while benzoyl peroxide helps in the reduction of oil production in the skin and keeps the skin pores clean.

How to use Duac

Before using Duac, wash the affected area with a mild, non-medicated cleanser and rinse with warm water. After patting the skin dry, apply a thin layer of Duac on the acne and acne prone skin, i.e. cheeks, forehead, nose, chest, arms. Wash your hands thoroughly after the application.

The amount and frequency of applying Duac should be exactly as determined by the doctor.

Duac warnings and precautions

Do not use Duac if you are allergic to Clindamycin or benzoyl peroxide.

Inform your doctor beforehand if you have a history of intestinal disorders like ulcerative colitis, regional enteritis, difficile associated diarrhea, antibiotic associated colitis, and Clostridium.

Test on a patch of skin to see if your skin is sensitive to this gel and only then apply it anywhere else. Do not apply Clindamycin on broken or irritated skin.

Limit intake of oily and greasy food products and do not apply oils of any kind on the affected areas.

Duac can cause hyper sensitivity to sunlight and other harsh lighting. Therefore, remember to keep yourself adequately covered and avoid tanning agents, sunlamps, etc as far as possible. Duac may bleach the skin or clothing that comes in contact with it; therefore avoid contact with hair and clothing.

This medicine must not be used for children under the age of 12 years.

Pregnant women are advised to not use this medicine until and unless there is an urgent need. You must contact the doctor before using this medicine. Nursing mothers are advised not to use this medicine as it can pass through breast milk and may result in adverse effects on the infant.

What do I do if I have missed a Duac dose?

If you have missed a Duac dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not apply more of the medicine to make up for the loss.

What do I do if I have taken a Duac overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Duac, consult your doctor.

Duac interactions

Before using Duac, tell your doctor about all the prescription, non prescription and herbal medicines that you are taking. If any of these medications consist of an antibiotic ingredient, inform your doctor as failing to do so could result in some serious side effects from Duac.

Also, do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Duac side effects

Side effects from Duac appear in the form of dry skin, redness, burning, itching and peeling in the affected area. You must report the development and persistence of any of these promptly to the doctor.

Some serious side effects of Duac include a severe intestinal condition called Clostridium difficle-associated diarrhea, severe abdominal pain and bloody mucus in the stool. These, however, are very rare conditions.

Serious allergic reactions are also part of Duac side effects. These include rash, itching and swelling on the face, tongue and throat. Severe dizziness and breathing trouble must be reported immediately to the doctor.