Dapsone

Uses
Dapsone (Dapsone) has a number of uses. It is commonly prescribed to treat skin disorders, such as dermatitis herpetiformis, a chronic skin condition which can cause blisters. Doctors also prescribe it for use in combination with other drugs to treat symptoms of leprosy (Hansen's disease). The main ingredient in this drug works by preventing the production of folinic acid, a chemical needed by the infection to spread. Other uses for this drug include treating severe acne and preventing pneumocystitis pneumonia (a severe lung infection) in patients with HIV.

Dosage and Administration
Dapsone (Dapsone) tablets are taken by mouth. You will need to consult your doctor before starting treatment, so that the correct dosage can be prescribed. Patients treating lepromatous leprosy are usually told to take 50mg to 100mg by mouth once per day. Treatment may continue for 2 to 5 years. Tuberculoid leprosy is normally treated with 100mg, taken once per day, for 6 months. Adults taking this medication to treat dermatitis herpetiformis are sometimes prescribed a dosage of 50mg, to be taken once per day. However, this dosage may be increased, and in some cases, doses of 300mg per day may be prescribed. Always follow your doctor's instructions.

Side effects
Patients who take Dapsone (Dapsone) to treat the conditions listed above may sometimes experience side effects, including:

• Dermatitis
• Appetite loss
• Sleep problems
• Ringing noise in the ears
• Skin that is sensitive to sunlight

While you are being treated with this medicine, you must tell your doctor about any side effects which occur. In some cases, patients may experience serious side effects, such as blue discolouration of the skin, dark discoloured urine, methaemoglobinaemia, peripheral neuropathy and muscle weakness. Other reactions which have not been listed here may also occur, and you are advised to consult your doctor for more information.

Precautions
Patients who are treating Hansen's disease should note that a worsening of skin sores may occur, as well as muscle pain or weakness. This is caused by the immune system fighting the infection, and you may need special treatment for this. Ask your doctor for more details.

If you suffer from (or have a history of being affected by) methemoglobin reductase deficiency, G6PD deficiency, diabetic ketosis, serious infections, heart disease, lung disease or liver disease, you must inform your doctor before taking this medicine.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Dapsone (Dapsone) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.