Dapsone is a prescription drug, available for use as Tablet. It is typically used for the treatment of Leprosy. Dapsone also has some secondary and off-label uses. These are listed below.
The correct dosage of Dapsone depends on the patient's age, gender, and medical history. Besides the medical condition it is advised for, the route of administration also plays an important role in determining the correct drug dosage. Refer to the dosage section for a detailed discussion.
Dapsone also has some side effects, the most common being Nausea or vomiting, Itchy Rash, Fever. Some other side effects of Dapsone have been listed ahead. Usually, these side effects of Dapsone go away soon, and do not persist beyond the duration of the treatment. Please speak with your doctor if these side effects worsen or persist for a longer duration.
In addition, Dapsone's effect is Moderate during pregnancy and Severe for lactating mothers. In addition, Dapsone's effects on the liver, heart and kidney are discussed below in the Dapsone related warnings section.
Some other conditions that can be affected by Dapsone are listed in the contraindications section below.
Drug reaction of Dapsone with other medicines has been reported. See below for a complete list.
In addition to the above precautions for Dapsone, it is important to know that it is safe while driving, and is habit-forming.
Dapsone is used to treat the following -
Main Benefits
Other Benefits
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
Age Group | Dosage |
Adult |
|
Geriatric |
|
13 - 18 years (Adolescent) |
|
2 - 12 years (Child) |
|
Based on research, the following side effects have been observed when Dapsone is used -
Moderate
Mild
Common
Unknown
Is the use of Dapsone safe for pregnant women?
Pregnant women may experience moderate side effects from Dapsone. It is best to stop taking Dapsone immediately and inform your doctor if you notice any discomfort.
Is the use of Dapsone safe during breastfeeding?
Women who are breastfeeding may experience severe harmful effects after taking Dapsone. It should only be taken after medical advice.
What is the effect of Dapsone on the Kidneys?
There are no side effects of Dapsone on the kidneys.
What is the effect of Dapsone on the Liver?
The liver can be affected by Dapsone. If you experience any unwanted effects of this drug, stop taking it and consult your doctor. You should restart Dapsone only after medical advice.
What is the effect of Dapsone on the Heart?
You can take Dapsone without any fear of damage to the heart.
Dapsone should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Moderate
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Dapsone unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Dapsone habit forming or addictive?
No, you will not get addicted to Dapsone.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
Yes, you can operate a vehicle or heavy machinery after taking Dapsone since it does not cause drowsiness.
Is it safe?
Yes, but take Dapsone only as per medical advice.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
No, Dapsone is not used to treat mental disorders.
Interaction between Food and Dapsone
It is safe to take Dapsone with food.
Interaction between Alcohol and Dapsone
Due to lack of research, nothing can be said about side effects of consuming alcohol while taking Dapsone.
This medicine data has been created by -
References
KD Tripathi. [link]. Seventh Edition. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013: Page No 780-781
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Aczone® (dapsone)