Dapsone

Molecule Description

Dapsone is an anti-infective medicine used for the treatment of certain skin di

seases and leprosy and to prevent infections such as malaria and pneumonia.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Dapsone

Treatment of leprosy (a bacterial infection that affects the skin and nerves), in combination with other medicines
Treatment of a chronic itchy skin rash with blisters (dermatitis herpetiformis) which is caused by an overactive immune system, or any other similar skin reactions
Prevention of malaria, in combination with another medicine called Pyrimethamine
Prevention of pneumonia (a lung infection caused by Pneumocystis Carinii) in patients with weakened immune systems, especially in AIDS patients

Contraindications of Dapsone

When should one not use Dapsone

Allergy to Dapsone or any other components of the medicine
Severe anaemia
A genetic or inherited disorder causing accumulation of substances related to the production of red blood cells (porphyria)
Another genetic disorder that causes increased breakdown of red blood cells ( Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency)

Side effects of Dapsone

Common side effects of this drug are:

Fever, rashes, skin reactions, liver and kidney problems, mental illness (Dapsone syndrome)
Decrease in red blood cells (anaemia)
Tingling (due to nerve damage), redness or burning of the skin
Feeling sick, decreased hunger, liver problems (jaundice)
Fast heart rate
Mental disturbances (mood and behavioral changes, anxiety)

Precautions and Warnings of Dapsone

Pregnancy

Can I take Dapsone during pregnancy?

You can continue to use Dapsone during pregnancy. Nevertheless, inform your doctor if you are pregnant. Folic acid supplementation is advised.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Dapsone while breastfeeding?

Dapsone can secrete in breast milk. You may continue your treatment under strict supervision, and caution is advised. Inform your doctor if you notice any new symptoms in your baby.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Dapsone?

Be cautious while driving if you have any skin rashes or sensitive skin or any anxiety or depression symptoms. Otherwise, there are no significant effects of Dapsone on driving.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Dapsone?

Alcohol can worsen certain side effects of Dapsone. Occasional consumption is permitted in the absence of any side effects. However, it is essential to remember that alcohol delays healing.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

Any heart or lung disease
Decreased blood cell count (anaemia)
Blood cell count tests should be performed regularly while on treatment with Dapsone

Mode of Action of Dapsone

How Does It Work?

It works by stopping the production of folic acid in certain bacteria, which is essential for the growth of bacteria like Mycobacterium Leprae and Pneumocystis Carinii.

Interactions of Dapsone

Interactions with other medicines

Probenecid (used to treat gout)
Rifampicin or Trimethoprim (medicines used to treat bacterial infections)

Interactions with food items

Dapsone does not interact with food. You can take it before or after meals.

Dosage of Dapsone

Overdose

Accidental overdose of Dapsone may not be harmful. But, high overdose can cause destruction of red blood cells, shortness of breath, etc. and can be harmful. Inform your doctor and seek medical attent...

Missed a Dose

Take Dapsone as soon as you remember the missed dose. If it is almost time for your next dose (less than 8 hours), skip the missed dose and go back to regular dose schedule. Do not take a double dose ...

Q: What is Dapsone syndrome?

A: Dapsone syndrome is an allergic reaction to Dapsone with symptoms such as rashes, fever, and increased eosinophils (a type of white blood cells that are raised in allergies). The symptoms typically appear in the first 3-6 weeks of starting the therapy. If Dapsone is not stopped immediately, the allergy may progress to redness and peeling or shedding of skin (exfoliative dermatitis), liver problems, increased protein in the urine, and psychotic symptoms (anxiety, depression, etc.). It may take some time to recover after stopping, as it takes time for Dapsone to be eliminated from the body. Supportive treatment includes administration of Corticosteroids (Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone, etc.).

Q: Is there anything else I must know while taking Dapsone?

A: The efficacy of Dapsone depends on maintaining constant levels of Dapsone in the blood, which can only be achieved by taking Dapsone regularly exactly at the prescribed time. The medicine may not be effective if you take it at different time every day. Also, remember not to stop the medication on your own if you feel uncomfortable. If you stop suddenly, symptoms may reappear, and it may be difficult to cure them. Inform your doctor if you have a problem with the medicine.

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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