Indications
Aczone gel is a prescription medication used to treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris in patients aged 12 years and older. The gel contains dapsone, which is an antibiotic that is believed to work by decreasing the bacterial population on the skin and reducing inflammation.
Dapsone gel is a medication used to treat acne vulgaris, which is a common skin condition that causes pimples and blemishes on the face, chest, and back. You can apply this gel to your affected skin as directed, usually once in the morning and once in the evening. Dapsone gel is applied topically to the affected areas of the skin once a day.
Uses and Dosage
Aczone gel is applied topically once a day and typically takes about 12 weeks to show noticeable results. To use dapsone gel:
- First wash your hands and the affected area thoroughly with a gentle cleanser and water.
- Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
- Then, apply a thin layer of dapsone gel to the affected areas of the skin once a day, preferably in the evening.
- Avoid applying the gel to broken, irritated, or sunburned skin.
- Use the medication as directed by your healthcare provider and continue to use it even if you do not see immediate improvement in your acne.
Do not use more or less of the medication or apply it more frequently than recommended as this may increase the risk of side effects.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Aczone Gel (Dapsone Gel):
- Oily skin
- Peeling skin
- Dryness of skin
- Redness of the skin being treated
Serious Side Effects of Aczone Gel (Dapsone Gel):
- Bluish-colored lips, fingernails, or palms
- Cold-like symptoms
- Cough
- Dark urine
- Difficult breathing
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fever
- Headache
- Increase in body temperature
- Pale skin
- Rapid heart rate
- Sinus infection
- Sore throat
- Stuffy nose
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
Form and Strength
Aczone Gel (Dapsone Gel) is available in the following forms and strength:
Aczone Gel: Gel
- 5 %
Dapsone Gel: Gel
- 5 %
Caution
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may develop an allergic reaction to dapsone gel. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding: The effects of dapsone gel on the developing fetus or breastfeeding infant are not known. Discuss the risks and benefits of using dapsone gel during pregnancy or while breastfeeding with your healthcare provider.
- Interactions with other medications: inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently using, including prescription and over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Dapsone gel may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners or other drugs that may cause methemoglobinemia.
- Sun sensitivity: Dapsone gel may increase sensitivity to sunlight, use protective clothing and sunscreen when going outside during the day.
- Dryness and peeling of the skin: These are common side effects of dapsone gel that may occur during treatment. If these side effects are severe or prolonged, consult your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long should you use dapsone (Aczone)?
Treatment with dapsone (Aczone) is usually recommended for 12 weeks (3 months). Your healthcare provider will decide with you if the treatment should be continued at the end of this period.
Can I use dapsone gel during pregnancy?
Medications applied to the skin or swallowed during pregnancy can enter the bloodstream and affect the baby. While most ingredients in topical acne medications appear to be safe during pregnancy.
Do I need a prescription to get dapsone gel?
Yes, dapsone gel is a prescription medication and requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/dapsone/what-is#side-effects
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=b7d605cf-bf84-461b-939b-1f773a4cba65
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20173-dapsone-gel
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a616045.html
- https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/0215/p451.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/dapsone-topical-route/description/drg-20067433
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