Indications 

Dapsone is a prescription medicine used to treat symptoms associated with dermatitis herpetiformis, a particular type of skin disorder. It may also be utilized in combination with other pharmaceutical agents to address Hansen’s disease, commonly known as leprosy. 

As a member of the sulfone drug class, Dapsone works by reducing swelling and restricting bacterial proliferation.  

This medication is ineffective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu. Inappropriate or excessive use of this antibiotic can result in diminished efficacy for future use.  

Use and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Dapsone and each subsequent refill, read its patient information leaflet and medication guide. Seek guidance from a healthcare professional for any questions or clarifications. 

Dapsone’s dosage may vary per individual based on medical condition and response to the treatment. Age and weight are also considered for pediatric patients.  

Typically, Dapsone is taken once a day or as prescribed by the doctor without regard to food intake.  

Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage regimen of Dapsone. Do not take more or less than prescribed, and refrain from exceeding the frequency specified by your physician. 

For optimal efficacy, take Dapsone at evenly spaced times, around the same time daily. Do not discontinue intake without consulting your doctor.  

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse reactions associated with Dapsone. If any of them persist or worsen, inform your physician or pharmacist promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Headache 
• Dizziness or spinning sensation 
• Blurred vision 
• Ringing in the ears 
• Insomnia 

Serious Side Effects  

• Lack of improvement or deterioration in symptoms 
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice) 
• Numbness or tingling in hands or feet 
• Unusual thoughts or behavior 
• New or worsening cough 
• Fever 
• Chills 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling or rapid weight gain 
• Reduced or no urine output 
• Sudden weakness or ill feeling 
• Mouth sores, red/swollen gums, and trouble swallowing 
• Pale skin  
• Easy bruising 
• Purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin 
• Severe upper stomach pain spreading to back 
• Rapid heart rate 
• Joint pain or swelling with fever 
• Confusion 
• Chest pain 
• Shortness of breath 
• Butterfly-shaped skin rash on cheeks/nose worsening in sunlight 
• Swelling in face/tongue 
• Burning sensation in eyes 
• Skin pain followed by red/purple rash, blistering, and peeling 

Get immediate medical assistance if you experience any of the severe symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Severe allergic response to Dapsone is rare. However, get immediate medical assistance if you notice any indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Rash 
• Itching 
• Facial, tongue, or throat edema 
• Severe dizziness 
• Difficulty breathing  

Note that this list of potential side effects of Dapsone is not exhaustive. If any bothersome side effects not listed are experienced, contact your physician or pharmacist. 

Cautions 

Prior to initiating treatment with Dapsone, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have a known hypersensitivity, especially to this medication or to similar drugs such as sulfoxone. 

The inactive ingredient in this medication may provoke allergic reactions or other adverse effects. Consult your pharmacist for additional information. 

To ensure the safety and efficacy of Dapsone use, inform your physician of your medical history, especially of: 

• Certain blood conditions (e.g., anemia, G6PD deficiency, methemoglobin reductase deficiency) 

• Hepatic dysfunction 
• Cardiac conditions 
• Respiratory diseases 
• Severe infections 
• Hyperglycemia-induced ketosis in diabetes 

To avoid potential drug interactions, inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription/nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Be mindful of telling them, especially the following: 

• aminobenzoate potassium (Potaba) 
• aminobenzoic acid 
• clofazimine (Lamprene) 
• didanosine (Videx) 
• probenecid (Benemid) 
• pyrimethamine (Daraprim) 
• rifampin (Rifadin) 
• trimethoprim (Bactrim, Cotrim, Septra) 

Dapsone administration must be separated from heartburn and gastric acid medication (e.g., significant quantities of antacids, ranitidine, famotidine) and didanosine by at least 2 hours to ensure proper absorption. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for more information. 

Experiencing dizziness is a possible side effect of Dapsone, which may be exacerbated by alcohol or marijuana use. Abstain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you feel safe to do so. 

Consumption of alcoholic beverages should also be limited. Discuss any cannabis use with your doctor. 

Dapsone may cause the skin to get sensitive to sunlight. Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen when going out and avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight.