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Dapsone

  • Take this medicine for as long as your doctor tells you to. Your course of treatment may last several months or years.
  • Important: If you develop unexplained bruising or bleeding, or a rash with a high temperature, speak with your doctor immediately.

About dapsone

Type of medicineAntileprotic drug
Used forTreatment of leprosy
Skin problems
Available asTablets

Dapsone works by stopping the growth of the bacteria that causes leprosy. It is usually used in combination with other antibacterial medicines.

Before taking dapsone

Before taking dapsone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you suffer from heart or lung problems.
  • If you have anaemia (lack of iron in the blood).
  • If you know you have glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency (a genetic disorder).
  • If you have porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take dapsone

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Try to take dapsone at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses. Swallow your dose with a drink of water.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
  • Continue to take this medicine for as long as your doctor tells you to. Your treatment may last several months or years.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with dapsone.

Can dapsone cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer
Feeling or being sickEat little and often. Stick to simple foods
Rash, difficulty sleeping, tingling of the skin, weakness, fast heart beat, loss of appetite, and mental disturbancesIf troublesome, speak with your doctor

Important: If you develop a rash with a high temperature, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay.

Important: If you experience fever, sore throat, rash and mouth ulcers with unexplained bruising or bleeding, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store dapsone

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Dapsone tablets, Actavis UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised May 2007, accessed 14 May 2008.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008DocID:
3261		DocRef:
dils3934		Last Reviewed:
9 Jun 2008		Version:
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