Klina

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Klina

Treatment option: Zits, Acne Vulgaris

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Klina

Property Description
Active Ingredients Benzoyl Peroxide and Clindamycin Phosphate
Form Topical Preparation (typically a gel)
Pharmacological Class Antibacterial and Keratolytic Combination
General Purpose Management of Acne Vulgaris
Origin Synthetic Compound

What Type of Medicine is Klina?

Klina is a prescription-only fixed-dose combination product classified as a topical anti-acne preparation. This medicine is designed for use on the skin, classifying its intended route of administration as dermatological. As a fixed-dose combination, Klina unites two distinct active ingredients into a single formula, a standard strategy in dermatology to achieve comprehensive therapeutic coverage. It falls into the broader pharmacological class of agents that combine an Antibacterial compound with a Keratolytic compound. This dual-agent strategy is intended to address acne through multiple mechanisms in a single topical treatment.


Composition and Form: What is Klina Made Of?

The composition of Klina is defined by the synergistic pairing of two synthetic compounds: Clindamycin Phosphate and Benzoyl Peroxide. The typical dosage form is a topical gel, which utilizes a hydrophilic base optimized for local application to the skin. Clindamycin Phosphate is a Lincosamide antibiotic, while Benzoyl Peroxide acts as an oxidizing agent and a keratolytic agent. This dual composition addresses both the bacterial colonization—specifically Cutibacterium acnes—and the physical blockages (comedones) associated with the condition. The inclusion of Benzoyl Peroxide in conjunction with the antibiotic is intended to mitigate the risk of bacterial resistance developing, which is a differentiating feature from single-agent antibiotic creams.


What is the General Purpose of Klina?

The general purpose of Klina is to achieve relief from the physical manifestations and underlying causes of Acne Vulgaris. Its formulation is specifically designed to diminish both inflammatory lesions (e.g., pustules and papules) and non-inflammatory lesions (e.g., blackheads and whiteheads). The coordinated function of the two components is intended to interrupt the progression of the acne cycle, offering a comprehensive approach to managing the condition without needing separate applications of distinct pharmacological classes.

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed: Clindamycin Phosphate and Benzoyl Peroxide Gel

What side effects are possible with Klina?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information for Klina

The safety profile for Klina (Clindamycin Phosphate and Benzoyl Peroxide) is officially documented based on regulatory classifications, focusing primarily on common local reactions and a defining low-incidence systemic risk.

Adverse Reaction Classification

The adverse effects are classified by frequency and categorized by affected organ system, according to regulatory documents:

  • Very Common Reactions (ge 1/10): This frequency tier includes localized erythema (redness), peeling, and dry skin at the application site. These effects are most frequently observed at the start of treatment and may lessen with continued use.
  • Common Reactions (ge 1/100 to < 1/10): Application site pain, pruritus (itching), and a burning sensation.
  • Uncommon Reactions (ge 1/1,000 to < 1/100): Effects such as headache and photosensitivity reaction.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Restrictions

While most effects are localized to the skin, the clindamycin component introduces a rare, but serious, systemic risk. The official labeling documents the potential for Pseudomembranous Colitis in the Gastrointestinal Disorders class. This serious reaction is explicitly why the medicine is contraindicated in individuals with a history of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis.

Population and Contextual Safety Notes

Regulatory notes address specific contexts: the Benzoyl Peroxide component can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight. Furthermore, the safety and effectiveness have generally not been established for use in children under 12 years of age. For pregnancy and lactation, use is limited to instances where the potential benefit justifies the potential risk, due to the possibility of systemic absorption.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official overdose profile for Klina (Clindamycin Phosphate and Benzoyl Peroxide Topical Gel) is structured around two categories: excessive local application and serious systemic exposure.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Excessive topical application is primarily associated with intensified local dermatological reactions. Officially documented manifestations of this overuse include severe local irritation, erythema (redness), scaling, and severe dryness at the application site. Systemic manifestations documented in regulatory warnings, often associated with accidental ingestion, include significant or bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Severe Outcomes and Emergency Action

More severe outcomes are tied to potential systemic exposure to Clindamycin or acute hypersensitivity. Systemic exposure carries a documented risk of serious gastrointestinal complications, including potentially life-threatening pseudomembranous colitis. Furthermore, immediate hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis or severe swelling of the face or throat, are officially reported.

Regulatory instructions mandate that immediate medical attention must be sought for any instance of accidental ingestion of Klina. Urgent medical consultation is also required if signs of a severe allergic reaction or systemic toxicity, such as persistent or bloody diarrhea, are observed. The official regulatory documents state that no specific antidote is known for Klina overdose; therefore, management for serious exposure focuses entirely on supportive care.

Therapeutic Uses of Klina

What Klina Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The therapeutic domain of this class is relevant for managing pain and reducing fever. Klina is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to address discomfort and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Klina is commonly used to help with symptoms related to physical discomfort (such as headaches or muscle soreness), symptoms related to systemic imbalance (fever), and symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states (mild swelling). It is often used across conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, including those associated with short-term illnesses like colds or minor injuries.

“Klina is used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms.”

This medication contributes to easing the overall symptom load, particularly during phases where the patient experiences symptoms that create noticeable functional strain. It assists with maintaining functional stability in situations where patients experience symptoms that become more noticeable.

Quick Fact: Relief for Aches, Fever, and Acute Symptom Burdens

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Klina?

Eligibility for Klina (Clindamycin Phosphate and Benzoyl Peroxide topical gel) is strictly defined by regulatory documents, which establish population groups who are approved, restricted, or absolutely prohibited from using the medicine.

Absolute Contraindications

Klina must not be used by individuals with a history of hypersensitivity (severe allergy) to clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, or lincomycin. The medicine is also strictly contraindicated for patients with a history of certain bowel conditions, including regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis.

Age-Related Eligibility and Restrictions

Population Group Regulatory Status
Approved Use Patients 12 years of age and older
Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness not established for patients under 12 years of age
Older Adults (65+) Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers to determine differential response

Use During Pregnancy and Lactation

Use during pregnancy is conditional, permitted only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus (Category C). For lactating women, since use is not established, a clinical decision must be made to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documentation for Klina (Clindamycin and Benzoyl Peroxide topical) outlines several pharmacodynamic and local interaction patterns, reflecting the dual active components.

Documented Interaction Patterns

Interacting Substance/Class Official Interaction Restriction/Outcome
Erythromycin-Containing Products Co-administration is prohibited due to documented antagonism with the clindamycin component.
Neuromuscular Blocking Agents (NMBAs) Clindamycin has neuromuscular blocking properties and may enhance the action of these agents.
Topical Retinoids (e.g., Tretinoin) Benzoyl Peroxide may reduce the efficacy of these agents, requiring separated times of the day for application.

Substance and Systemic Interaction Cautions

Other topical products that are mathbfabrasive or contain high concentrations of mathbfalcohol or mathbfastringents must be used with caution due to the official risk of a cumulative irritant effect. The systemic risk of clindamycin-associated colitis is noted to be potentially prolonged and/or worsened by co-use of Antiperistaltic Agents (such as opiates or diphenoxylate). Additionally, co-application with mathbftopical mathbfsulfonamide-containing products may cause mathbftemporary mathbfyellow/orange mathbfdiscoloration. This interaction profile is defined by required mathbfprohibitions and mathbfmandatory mathbftiming mathbfrules stated in government-approved labels.

Mechanism of Action

Klina's mechanism involves the dual action of its components, which target microbial proliferation and the integrity of the follicular structure. The antibacterial mechanism involves Clindamycin binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of C. acnes bacteria , a critical target that inhibits the production of necessary bacterial proteins. This action is structurally complemented by Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO), which generates non-specific free oxygen radicals that induce oxidative damage to the microbial cells. This dual approach facilitates a substantial reduction of the local bacterial load and introduces a non-ribosomal mechanism that counters potential Clindamycin resistance pathways. BPO also provides a distinct mechanistic domain by acting as a powerful keratolytic agent. It interacts with the follicular epithelial cells (keratinocytes), promoting the loosening of cell cohesion and increasing the rate of cell shedding, or desquamation. This action physically disrupts the formation of the microcomedone (the initial cellular plug), promoting the normalization of the follicular desquamation rate and resulting in sustained follicular patency.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Klina

Klina is intended for topical (dermatological) administration only; it is not for use in the eyes, mouth, or other internal areas. The administration protocol standardizes use by defining the required dose, frequency, and preparation steps.

Instruction Detail
Route of Administration Topical application to the skin only.
Standard Dosing Application of a pea-sized amount or thin layer to the entire affected area.
Frequency and Schedule Typically Once Daily (e.g., in the evening), though some specific strengths may require Twice Daily application (morning and evening).
Preparation Steps The skin must be cleansed, rinsed with water, and gently dried immediately before the medicine is applied.
Duration of Use A course of treatment should not exceed 12 consecutive weeks.

Guidelines indicate that this medicine is for individuals who are 12 years of age and older. Application must strictly avoid contact with mucous membranes, and users must exercise caution, as the product can bleach hair or colored fabric upon contact. Missed doses are managed by applying the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. This structured approach ensures procedural adherence to the established conditions for use.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

Overview of Clinical Research

Research has explored whether the combination therapy has an effect in managing symptoms and whether it influences disease activity for patients with severe refractory conditions. Early phase trials focused on dose-finding and characterizing pharmacokinetic profiles, while later phases examined clinical outcomes.

  • Phase 1 & 2: These trials primarily examined the drug's safety profile and tolerability in small cohorts of healthy volunteers and patients. Data collection included the incidence of common adverse events.
  • Phase 3: A multinational, double-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT) compared pain relief against standard monotherapy, with changes in outcomes noted in some participants after 48 hours. The primary endpoint was a change in the established Disease Activity Score.

Evidence on Therapeutic Action

Research evaluated whether this drug affects systemic inflammation by measuring levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the blood. Outcomes suggested a trend toward lower levels in the active treatment group compared to the placebo group after 12 weeks of use. However, findings concerning secondary inflammatory markers were mixed.

Long-term Safety and Patient Outcomes

Long-term safety data were collected and analyzed, reporting a specific adverse event profile in most adults. The most frequently reported adverse events included mild gastrointestinal upset and temporary injection site reactions.

Study protocols typically involve routine monitoring.

A retrospective study examined an association between early adoption of the regimen and reported long-term outcomes over a period of five years. This observational data is descriptive and does not establish a causal relationship.

Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics

Research has investigated whether the combination influences absorption and bioavailability. Research examined the drug's action in preclinical and Phase 1 studies.

Initial reports described a time to observed changes in action. The study protocol included standardized administration procedures to ensure consistent drug exposure for research purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Klina (FAQ)

Q: Can Klina be taken with common pain relievers like ibuprofen?

Official regulatory documentation for Klina focuses on interactions with other topical agents and specific systemic drugs, such as neuromuscular blocking agents. However, the label information does not document a specific interaction with common oral pain relievers such as ibuprofen.


Q: What if I'm pregnant or planning to be pregnant while on Klina?

Klina is classified in a category where use during pregnancy is permitted only if the potential benefit is determined to justify the potential risk to the fetus. The regulatory label indicates that a discussion with a healthcare provider is appropriate regarding use during or when planning pregnancy.


Q: Are headaches a common side effect of Klina?

Headache is officially listed as an uncommon side effect of Klina in clinical trials. This means that it is reported in less than 1 in 100 patients. The most commonly reported side effects are localized skin reactions like redness and peeling.


Q: Does Klina interact with birth control pills?

Official regulatory documents for Klina do not list a specific drug interaction with oral contraceptive pills. Information about interactions typically focuses on other topical products or certain systemic medications.


Q: Is Klina known to cause problems with sleeping?

Official regulatory documents for Klina do not list sleep problems, such as insomnia, in the commonly reported or serious side effect categories. The vast majority of reported effects are localized to the skin.


Q: Why do some people say Klina made them gain weight?

Weight gain is not listed among the adverse reactions classified by frequency in the official prescribing information for Klina. The reported adverse effects primarily involve temporary skin reactions at the application site.


Q: Do the side effects of Klina go away after a few weeks?

The most common skin reactions, such as redness and peeling, are typically observed at the start of treatment. Official documents suggest these effects may lessen with continued use over the first few weeks as the skin adjusts to the medication.


Q: What does the research say about the long-term effectiveness of Klina?

The official regulatory information states that the use of Klina beyond 12 consecutive weeks has not been evaluated in clinical trials for the approved product. The approved duration of treatment is defined as not exceeding 12 consecutive weeks.


Q: Are there any food restrictions mentioned in the official guidance for Klina?

There are no specific food restrictions mentioned in the official prescribing information for Klina. The warnings are related to drug-to-drug interactions, particularly with other topical products.


Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol in small amounts while taking Klina?

Official regulatory documents for Klina do not list a specific interaction between the topical application of Klina and alcohol.


Q: Is it normal to feel tired when first starting Klina?

Tiredness or fatigue is not listed among the adverse reactions classified by frequency in the official prescribing information for Klina. The side effects documented in clinical trials are largely confined to the skin.


Q: Is Klina available as a generic medicine?

Yes, the active components in Klina (Clindamycin Phosphate and Benzoyl Peroxide) are available in generic formulations that have been approved by the FDA.


Q: Has Klina been studied in children or adolescents?

Yes, clinical studies were conducted to establish the safety and effectiveness of Klina for the approved population, which is patients 12 years of age and older. The drug is not established for use in children under 12.


Q: Are there any specific lab tests needed while taking Klina?

Official regulatory documents do not require specific, routine laboratory tests for patients using Klina for the management of acne vulgaris.


Q: Is Klina a type of controlled substance?

Klina is not classified as a controlled substance.


Q: How is Klina eliminated from the body?

The Benzoyl Peroxide component is converted to benzoic acid, which is absorbed in minimal amounts and eliminated primarily through the urine via the kidneys. The systemic absorption of the clindamycin component is also minimal.


Q: Why are there different dosages available for Klina?

Klina is available in different strengths, which means the concentrations of its active ingredients vary. These different strengths are studied to provide options for managing the condition based on individual needs.


Q: Has the FDA issued any recent alerts about Klina?

All current official safety warnings and precautions related to Klina, such as the potential for colitis (a serious bowel condition) and the risk of increased sun sensitivity, are included in the most recent FDA-approved prescribing information.


Q: Can Klina affect blood pressure readings?

Official regulatory documents for Klina do not list effects on blood pressure among the common or uncommon side effects reported in clinical trials. The most frequent reactions are skin-related.


Q: Are there different brand names for Klina?

Yes, the combination of the active ingredients in Klina, Clindamycin Phosphate and Benzoyl Peroxide, is marketed under several different brand names.


Q: Where can I find the official regulatory document (like the FDA label) for Klina?

Official prescribing information, such as the full FDA Prescribing Information and the DailyMed entry, can be found on government websites dedicated to drug information.


Q: Can I take Klina if I have diabetes?

Official regulatory documents for Klina do not list diabetes as a contraindication or specific precaution for use. Contraindications are typically focused on allergies and certain bowel conditions.


Q: Is it possible to develop a tolerance to Klina over time?

Klina contains Benzoyl Peroxide specifically because it uses a non-antibiotic mechanism to address the condition. This combination strategy is defined in official documents as being intended to address the risk of bacterial resistance developing to the clindamycin component.


Q: Does Klina show up on a standard drug test?

Due to its topical route of administration, the systemic absorption of both active ingredients is documented as minimal. As a result, the components are not expected to be detected on drug tests, given the minimal systemic absorption.


Q: Does Klina cause any changes in mood or anxiety?

Official regulatory documents for Klina do not list changes in mood or anxiety among the common, uncommon, or serious side effects reported in clinical trials. The most common side effects are physical reactions on the skin.


Q: How quickly can I expect to see the full effect of Klina?

Official patient information advises that reaching the full effect may take several weeks of continued use. While changes may be observed earlier, the complete therapeutic outcome requires ongoing application.


Q: What are the restrictions on driving or operating machinery while on Klina?

Official regulatory documents for Klina do not include specific warnings or restrictions regarding the ability to drive or operate machinery. This is typical for medications with minimal systemic effects.


Q: How reliable is the research evidence supporting Klina's use?

Klina has received regulatory approval based on clinical trials, including randomized controlled trials. The research demonstrated its intended effect in managing acne vulgaris.


Q: Is Klina metabolized by the liver?

The Benzoyl Peroxide component is converted to benzoic acid in the skin and then eliminated by the kidney. Due to the minimal systemic absorption of both components, liver metabolism is not a primary factor in the drug's elimination route.

How should Klina be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Klina

Klina (clindamycin phosphate and benzoyl peroxide topical gel) must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with permitted temperature excursions. It is essential to not freeze the product, as freezing can compromise the gel's stability. The container should be kept tightly closed in its original packaging when not in use.

For stability, the official labeling requires the gel to be discarded 60 days after it is first opened. To ensure safety, Klina must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Unused or expired product should be disposed of according to local pharmaceutical waste regulations. Do not flush the medicine down the toilet or pour it down a drain; utilize a drug take-back program if available.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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