Treatment of acne vulgaris with topical clindamycin phosphate: a double-blind study

In a double-blind study, 1% clindamycin phosphate in aqueous-alcohol vehicle was compared with the vehicle alone on the opposite side. Of 29 patients evaluated, the clindamycin-treated side was found to be better in 11, the placebo side was better in four, and both sides were improved in five. No benefit was found in the remaining nine patients. These results were not considered statistically significant. Following discontinuance of treatment a prominent flare was noted in 14 of 19 patients who had previously improved on one side or the other, and this was considered significant (p less than .05). One percent clindamycin phosphate in equal parts of alcohol and water is apparently beneficial for some, but not for all patients with inflammatory acne.