GENERIC NAME: DAPSONE (DDS) - ORAL (DAP-sown)
Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Dapsone is used to treat leprosy and other skin conditions.
OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to prevent malaria, for certain types of arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, or for pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP).
HOW TO USE: This may be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. It is important to take this medication as directed for as long as necessary to prevent leprosy from reoccurring. In some cases, therapy may be continued for 3 to 5 years.
SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting or headache may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if these effects persist or become bothersome. Notify your doctor if you develop: tingling of the hands or feet, dizziness, incoordination, muscle weakness, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, fever, sore throat, weakness, fatigue, jaundice, rapid heartbeat. This medication can affect your blood causing serious anemias. It is important to have your blood counts checked routinely while taking this medication. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing conditions, such as: blood disorders, liver disease, kidney disease, glucose-6-phosphate, dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of dapsone are found in breast milk, breast-feeding is not recommended while taking this medication. Consult your doctor.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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