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What is the most important information I should know about dapsone?

In rare cases, dapsone has been associated with serious, and sometimes fatal blood and liver problems. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience a sore throat, fever, pale skin, bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. These may be symptoms of blood or liver problems. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop a rash while taking dapsone. In rare cases, dapsone has been associated with serious, and sometimes fatal, skin reactions.

What is dapsone?

Dapsone is an antiinfective medication.

Dapsone is used in the treatment of dermatitis herpetiformis (a skin condition) and leprosy (Hansen's disease).

Dapsone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking dapsone?

Do not take dapsone without first talking to your doctor if you have

• glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency;

• methemoglobin reductase deficiency (hemoglobin M); or

• liver disease.

You may not be able to take dapsone, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Dapsone is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take dapsone without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Dapsone passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take dapsone without first talking to your doctor if you are nursing a baby.

How should I take dapsone?

Take dapsone exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Taking dapsone with food may decrease stomach upset, should it occur.

It is important to take dapsone regularly to get the most benefit.

Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other forms of monitoring during treatment with dapsone.

Store dapsone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a dapsone overdose may include nausea, vomiting, excitation, seizures, and bluish skin color.

What should I avoid while taking dapsone?

Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Dapsone may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight and sunburn may be more likely to occur. If exposure to the sun is unavoidable, wear a sunscreen and protective clothing.