Dapsone
INFORMATION ABOUT DAPSONE
Dapsone Uses
Dapsone is used in the treatment of leprosy and acne.
How Dapsone works
Dapsone is an anti-leprotic medication. In leprosy, it works by stopping the production of folic acid in certain bacteria, thereby stopping them from growing. In acne, it stops the growth of acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes) and helps reduce redness and swelling associated with acne lesions.
Common side effects of Dapsone
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Erythema (skin redness), Skin peeling, Dryness, Hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), Increased reticulocytes
CONTENT DETAILS
Last updated
10 Mar 2025 | 04:27 AM (UTC)
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Medicine brands for Dapsone
Expert advice for Dapsone
- Dapsone is used in the treatment of leprosy.
- It may also help with the treatment of acne, when used as a gel
- Finish the prescribed course, even if you start to feel better. Stopping it early may make the infection come back and harder to treat.
- Take it in the dose and duration as prescribed by your doctor.
- Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if becomes worse.
Frequently asked questions for Dapsone
Before using Dapsone, clean and dry the affected area. Gently and thoroughly massage it into the skin. Be careful not to get the medication in your eyes or mouth. If Dapsone gets in your eyes accidentally, wash with plenty of water and call your doctor if your eyes are irritated.
Use Dapsone for the duration advised by your doctor. You may have to use it for several months to clear your acne completely. Even the initial benefits may take several weeks to appear following which you shall be able to note a gradual but definite improvement. Usually, Dapsone should be used for a maximum of 12 weeks. You may need to use more than one tube of Dapsone during each course of treatment.
Dapsone treats and prevents acne by stopping the growth of bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) which causes it. Acne is an extremely common skin condition. During adolescence, grease glands in the skin produce extra grease in response to normal amounts of sex hormones in the body which can cause blocked pores (i.e., blackheads). When this happens, the pores get invaded by bacteria. As a result, certain chemicals are produced which go into deeper parts of the skin to produce red spots filled with pus, called acne. Dapsone effectively cures the inflammation and discomfort associated with acne, commonly known as pimples.
Be careful not to get Dapsone into your eyes or mouth. If you happen to get it in your eyes, rinse off with plenty of water immediately and contact your doctor. You must not use Dapsone if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. Tell your doctor if you notice any allergic reaction while using it for the first time. Inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines regularly to prevent any allergic reaction with other medicines. Do not cover the area being treated with Dapsone with a bandage, as this may increase absorption of this medicine and increase the side effects. Do not use more than what is recommended to relieve your symptoms faster. Using more than what is advised will only increase the side effects. Let your doctor know if you are planning to conceive. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should use Dapsone only if prescribed by the doctor.
If you forget to use Dapsone, do not worry and continue using Dapsone as soon as you remember. However, if you are not sure and have any other doubts, please consult your doctor.