What is Dapsone used for?
Dapsone treats severe skin lesions (dermatitis herpetiformis) which usually occur on the scalp, knees or elbows. Dapsone is also used for other conditions not mentioned in this guide.

Dose
Dapsone must be used as prescribed. Never make changes to the dosage without consulting with a doctor. Dapsone should be taken with water. If stomach irritations occur, take future doses with food. For best results take each dose at the same time every day.

The full course of treatment must be completed. Do not stop taking this medication even if your condition improves.

Missed Dose
A missed dose can be taken as long as a suitable length of time passes before the time of the next dose. Do not take a double dose.

Important information about this medication
Dapsone should not be taken by people who are allergic to any compound in this medication.

Your doctor will need to know the following: if you are allergic to food dyes, preservatives or other substances; if you are pregnant, breast-feeding or trying to fall pregnant; if you suffer with anemia, kidney or liver problems, AIDS, any heart disorder, low levels of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase or methemoglobin reductase, problems urinating, high levels of ketones, or haemoglobin M.

Prior to taking Dapsone, you must provide your doctor with details of your medical history. This must include medications that you have used, or are using, as well as any dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbal medications.

Women who become pregnant while using Dapsone should immediately inform their doctor. The active ingredient in Dapsone is secreted into breast milk which means that nursing mothers should use this medication with extreme caution, and only after discussing potential risks with a doctor.

Dapsone can cause increased sensitivity to UV rays; therefore wear appropriate clothing if you go outside, and do not use sun lamps or tanning beds during treatment with Dapsone.

When first using Dapsone, avoid driving or doing any dangerous activity to ensure that you do not experience any bad reactions to this medication.

Long-term use of Dapsone may bring on a secondary infection. If this occurs, inform your doctor.

What are the side-effects of this medication?
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include breathing problems, swelling (tongue, throat, face or lips), or hives. If any of these symptoms appear, call for medical assistance.

Symptoms of serious side-effects include bloody or pale stools, dark urine, behavioral changes, change in the color of the skin, severe hives, fever, lack of appetite, numbness or tingling (of the feet, legs, hands or arms), muscle weakness, severe diarrhea, sore throat, fatigue, weight loss, stomach cramps or pains, or jaundice.

Less serious side-effects that usually occur in the early stages of treatment with this medication are dizziness, blurred vision, headache, ringing in the ears, insomnia, headache, or vomiting.

This medication may cause other side-effects not mentioned above. Any uncomfortable symptoms that persist should be reported to your doctor.

If overdose is suspected
Symptoms of overdose may include hyperactivity, discoloration of the skin, vomiting or nausea, or convulsions.

Storage instructions
Dapsone should be stored in a dry, cool place – away from moisture or direct sunlight.