
What is Onexton?
Onexton (clindamycin phosphate and benzoyl peroxide) is a prescription medication used to treat acne vulgaris in individuals aged 12 and older.
This FDA-approved treatment effectively combats acne by targeting and treating various types of breakouts, including whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.
It contains two active ingredients:
- Clindamycin phosphate, an antibiotic that stops the growth of acne-causing bacteria,
- Benzoyl peroxide, which reduces oil production and keeps pores clear
Onexton is applied topically and helps decrease the number of acne pimples. The safety and effectiveness of using Onexton for more than 12 weeks, or in children under 12, have not been established.
It should not be used by individuals who have had allergic reactions to its ingredients or have specific medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or a history of colitis or severe diarrhea with past antibiotic use.
Dosage Information and Usage
Dosage Form and Strengths of Onexton
Onexton comes in the form of a 50g gel, with a strength of 1.2% clindamycin phosphate and 3.75% benzoyl peroxide. The gel is white to off-white in color, opaque, and has a smooth texture.
How to Use Onexton?
Using Onexton is simple, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully.
Here is the step-by-step process:
- Wash your face gently with mild soap and warm water, then pat your skin dry.
- Once your face is clean, use the pump to dispense one pea-sized amount of Onexton gel onto your fingertip.
- Apply this pea-size amount to six areas of your face: your chin, left cheek, right cheek, nose, left forehead, and right forehead.
- After that, spread the gel evenly over your entire face, gently rubbing it in. If your doctor advises you to apply Onexton to other areas with acne, make sure to ask how much to use.
- Remember to wash your hands with soap and water after applying the gel.
Important note: Only use Onexton on the skin, therefore, avoid getting it in your mouth, eyes, or vagina. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions.
Storage Information
To store Onexton properly, keep it at room temperature, at or below 77°F (25°C). Do not freeze it, as this can reduce its effectiveness. Discard any Onexton past its expiration date.
Store the pump upright to prevent leaks or damage, and always close the container tightly to maintain the gel’s quality. Following these steps will help ensure Onexton remains effective and safe to use.
Side Effects
Onexton, like any medication, may cause side effects in some individuals. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Common Side Effects
- Burning sensation
- Skin redness or swelling
- Itching
- Rash
- Skin dryness
- Skin peeling
Serious but Rare Side Effects
- Inflammation of the colon (colitis): Stop using Onexton Gel and contact your doctor immediately if you experience the following:
- severe stomach cramps
- watery diarrhea, or
- bloody diarrhea during treatment or within several weeks after treatment
- Allergic reactions: Seek medical help right away if you have symptoms such as:
- severe itching,
- swelling of your face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat, or
- trouble breathing while using Onexton
Warnings and Precautions
When using Onexton, certain precautions should be taken to ensure safe and effective treatment. It’s important to be aware of these warnings to minimize any potential risks associated with the prescription.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Colitis: Onexton contains clindamycin, which can be absorbed into the bloodstream. In rare cases, this can lead to diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, or colitis (inflammation of the colon). If you experience significant diarrhea while using Onexton, discontinue use and consult your doctor immediately.
- Ultraviolet Light and Environmental Exposure: After applying Onexton Gel, it’s important to minimize exposure to sunlight, including tanning beds or sun lamps. This is because Onexton can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn or other skin reactions.
- Other Topical Medications: If you’re using other topical acne treatments alongside Onexton, use them with caution. Using multiple acne treatments at once may increase the risk of skin irritation or dermatitis. If you experience irritation or dermatitis, reduce the frequency of application or temporarily stop using the treatment until the irritation subsides. Onexton should not be used with products that contain erythromycin.
These precautions are important to ensure the safe and effective use of Onexton Gel. If you have any concerns or questions about these warnings, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.
Drug Interactions
When using Onexton, it’s essential to be aware of potential interactions with other medications, as these interactions can affect the effectiveness or safety of treatment:
- Erythromycin: Avoid using Onexton with products containing erythromycin, whether topical or oral, because it includes clindamycin. Studies suggest erythromycin and clindamycin may counteract each other, though the clinical importance of this interaction is not fully clear.
- Neuromuscular Blocking Agents: Clindamycin, an ingredient in Onexton, can affect the action of other drugs that block neuromuscular transmission, causing prolonged muscle paralysis. Healthcare providers should closely monitor patients for signs of prolonged muscle paralysis, as this can affect their ability to breathe and move after surgery or anesthesia.
Alternative Treatment
If Onexton is not available, other options for treating acne include:
- Minocycline
- Accutane (Isotretinoin)
- Clindamycin topical
- Aldactone (Spironolactone)
- Tretinoin topical
- Doxycycline
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.






