What is Dapsone used for?

Dapsone is a sulfone antibiotic that is used for treating leprosy and dermatitis herpetiformis (extremely itchy groups of skin lesions, usually occurring on the elbows, knees, and scalp).

Before using Dapsone inform your doctor:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or any other substances
• if you have AIDS, liver problems, anemia, heart problems, kidney problems, low levels of an enzyme called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase or methemoglobin reductase, high blood levels of ketones, hemoglobin M, or urination problems

Some medicines may interact with Dapsone so inform your doctor if you are using:

• Rifampin, as it may decrease Dapsone’s effectiveness
• Probenecid or trimethoprim, because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Dapsone
  

How to use Dapsone

Use Dapsone as directed by your doctor.

Take Dapsone by mouth on an empty stomach. To clear up your infection completely, take Dapsone for the full course of treatment. Dapsone works best if it is taken at the same time each day. If you miss a dose of Dapsone, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Dapsone side effects

Common side effects – Blurred vision; feeling of a whirling motion; headache; nausea; ringing in the ears; sleeplessness; vomiting.

Severe side effects that need immediate medical help – Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bizarre behavior; bloody stools; changes in skin color; dark urine or pale stools; fever; giant hives; infection (fever, chills); loss of appetite; muscle weakness; numbness, tingling, or burning of your arms, hands, legs, or feet; personality changes; severe diarrhea; severe rash; sore throat; stomach pains/cramps; unusual fatigue; weight loss; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Storage:

Store Dapsone at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C), in a tightly closed container. Store it away from heat, moisture, and light.

Keep Dapsone out of the reach of children and also away from pets.