Fixed-dose combination gel clindamycin 1.2%/tretinoin 0.025% for the treatment of acne vulgaris: a review

Topical fixed-dose combinations are recommended as a first-line treatment for mild-to-moderate inflammatory (papulopustular) acne, as they target multiple acne pathogenetic factors, are associated with a favorable efficacy and tolerability profile, are easy to apply and may increase patient compliance, especially in teenage acne patients. The combination of a topical antibiotic with a retinoid combines the antibiotic-associated effects of improving inflammatory and noninflammatory acne lesions, with the retinoid-associated effects of normalizing desquamation and reducing comedogenesis, while aiming at reducing the risk of bacterial resistance. In this article, data regarding the efficacy, safety and tolerability of topical clindamycin 1.2%/tretinoin 0.025% gel for acne treatment will be presented. The effects of topical clindamycin 1.2%/tretinoin 0.025% gel therapy in children and young teenagers, as well as different skin types, will be addressed.