Dr. Manjunath explains that acne is one of the most common conditions encountered in daily clinical practice. Topical and systemic antibiotics are widely used in acne management, with clindamycin being one of the most commonly prescribed topical antibiotics.
He highlights that the major challenge with clindamycin is the emergence of resistance, particularly when it is used continuously as monotherapy. Therefore, alternative and adjunctive treatment options need to be explored. To reduce antibiotic resistance, clindamycin is commonly combined with benzoyl peroxide and retinoids.
Dr. Manjunath further notes that antibiotics alone do not address follicular clogging, as they primarily act on bacteria rather than on blocked pores. Benzoyl peroxide and retinoids help reduce pore clogging and play a crucial role in comprehensive acne management.
Due to the widespread use of clindamycin, increasing resistance is now being observed. Other antibiotics such as erythromycin and tetracyclines have also been used. More recently, newer topical antibiotics, including topical clarithromycin and topical minocycline, are emerging as alternatives in the topical treatment of acne.
