Dapsone (On the skin)

Introduction:

Dapsone (DAP-sone)

Treats severe acne.

Brand Name(s):

Aczone

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to dapsone.

How to Use This Medicine:

Gel/Jelly

  • Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
  • This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
  • Before applying the medicine, gently wash the skin areas to be treated and pat the skin dry.
  • Use only a small amount of medicine, about the size of a pea. Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
  • Use the medicine twice daily unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
  • After applying the medicine, put the cap back onto the tube and place the tube into the original carton.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Always store your medicine in the original carton and protect it from light or freezing.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a sulfa antibiotic called Bactrim®, Septra®, cotrimoxazole, or TMP/SMX. Tell your doctor if you use rifampin (Rifadin®, Rimactane®), pyrimethamine (Daraprim®), or St. John's wort. Your doctor should know if you also use medicine to treat seizures, such as Depakote®, Dilantin®, phenytoin, or Tegretol®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have a history of anemia, blood cell disorders, or an enzyme deficiency called G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) deficiency.
  • You may need to have lab tests to check your red blood cells before you start using this medicine.
  • Do not use this medicine for any skin condition that has not been checked by a doctor.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor. You should see some improvement within 12 weeks after starting the medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Blistering, peeling, red skin rash.
  • Change in your behavior, thoughts of hurting yourself.
  • Feeling unusually weak or lightheaded.
  • Muscle stiffness, weakness, or lack of coordination.
  • Severe vomiting.
  • Sharp pain in your upper stomach or back, fast heartbeat.
  • Shortness of breath, tiredness, uneven heartbeat, pale skin.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Dry, oily, or red skin where the medicine is applied.
  • Headache.
  • Mild skin rash or itching.
  • Runny or stuffy nose.
  • Stomach pain.
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