Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 25mg
- 100mg
Dermatitis Herpetiformis
50 mg PO qDay, titrate to 300 mg qDay or higher to achieve desired effect
Reduce dose to minimum effective dose within the range of 50-300 mg qDay as soon as possible
Leprosy
100 mg PO qDay, in combination with other antileprosy drugs
Tuberculoid or Lepromatous Disease
100 mg PO qDay with rifampin 600 mg PO qDay
Pneumocystis (Carinii) Jiroveci (Off-label)
Prophylaxis
- 100 mg PO qDay or divided BID as monotherapy, OR
- 50 mg qDay in combination with weekly pyrimethamine and leucovorin
Treatment
- 100 mg PO qDay in combination with trimethoprim for 21 days
Toxoplasmosis (Orphan)
Prophylaxis in severely immunocompromised patients (CD4 count <100)
Orphan indication sponsor
- Jacobus Pharmaceutical Company, Inc; 37 Cleveland Lane, P.O. Box 5290; Princeton, NJ 08540
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 25mg
- 100mg
Leprosy
1-2 mg/kg PO qDay; not to exceed 100 mg/day in combination with other antileprosy agents
Dosing considerations
- Administer for 3 years (minimum) in combination with multidrug regimen (ie, rifampin)
Pneumocystis (Carinii) Jiroveci (Off-label)
Prophylaxis
- >1 month old: 2 mg/kg PO qDay; not to exceed 100 mg/day, OR
- 4 mg/kg/dose PO qWeek; not to exceed 200 mg/week
- Adolescents: 100 mg PO qDay or divided BID as monotherapy, OR 50 mg qDay in combination with weekly pyrimethamine and leucovorin
Treatment
- >1 month old: 2 mg/kg PO qDay in combination with trimethoprim for 21 days
- Adolescents: 100 mg PO qDay in combination with trimethoprim for 21 days
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results

Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor

Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (21)
- aluminum hydroxide
aluminum hydroxide will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by increasing gastric pH. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- apalutamide
apalutamide will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration of apalutamide, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, with drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates can result in lower exposure to these medications. Avoid or substitute another drug for these medications when possible. Evaluate for loss of therapeutic effect if medication must be coadministered. Adjust dose according to prescribing information if needed.
- BCG vaccine live
dapsone decreases effects of BCG vaccine live by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Contraindicated. Wait until Abx Tx complete to administer live bacterial vaccine.
- calcium carbonate
calcium carbonate will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by increasing gastric pH. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- dapsone topical
dapsone, dapsone topical. unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid coadministration of dapsone topical with oral dapsone or antimalarial medications because of the potential for hemolytic reactions.
- famotidine
famotidine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by increasing gastric pH. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- fexinidazole
fexinidazole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Fexinidazole inhibits CYP3A4. Coadministration may increase risk for adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
- ibuprofen/famotidine
ibuprofen/famotidine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by increasing gastric pH. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- idelalisib
idelalisib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Idelalisib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor; avoid coadministration with sensitive CYP3A substrates
- ivosidenib
ivosidenib will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid coadministration of sensitive CYP3A4 substrates with ivosidenib or replace with alternate therapies. If coadministration is unavoidable, monitor patients for loss of therapeutic effect of these drugs.
ivosidenib will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2C9/10 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid coadministration of sensitive CYP2C9 substrates with ivosidenib or replace with alternate therapies. If coadministration is unavoidable, monitor patients for loss of therapeutic effect of these drugs. - lansoprazole
lansoprazole will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by increasing gastric pH. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- lonafarnib
lonafarnib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid coadministration with sensitive CYP3A substrates. If coadministration unavoidable, monitor for adverse reactions and reduce CYP3A substrate dose in accordance with product labeling.
- mefloquine
mefloquine increases toxicity of dapsone by unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased risk of hemolytic reactions.
- nefazodone
nefazodone will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- saquinavir
saquinavir will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- selinexor
dapsone, selinexor. unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Patients treated with selinexor may experience neurological toxicities. Avoid taking selinexor with other medications that may cause dizziness or confusion.
- sodium bicarbonate
sodium bicarbonate will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by increasing gastric pH. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- sodium citrate/citric acid
sodium citrate/citric acid will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by increasing gastric pH. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- tucatinib
tucatinib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid concomitant use of tucatinib with CYP3A substrates, where minimal concentration changes may lead to serious or life-threatening toxicities. If unavoidable, reduce CYP3A substrate dose according to product labeling.
- typhoid vaccine live
dapsone decreases effects of typhoid vaccine live by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Contraindicated. Wait until Abx Tx complete to administer live bacterial vaccine.
- voxelotor
voxelotor will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Voxelotor increases systemic exposure of sensitive CYP3A4 substrates. Avoid coadministration with sensitive CYP3A4 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index. Consider dose reduction of the sensitive CYP3A4 substrate(s) if unable to avoid.
Monitor Closely (54)
- apalutamide
apalutamide will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2C9/10 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of apalutamide, a weak CYP2C9 inducer, with drugs that are CYP2C9 substrates can result in lower exposure to these medications. Evaluate for loss of therapeutic effect if medication must be coadministered.
- bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of bazedoxifene/conjugated estrogens by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- belzutifan
belzutifan will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. If unable to avoid coadministration of belzutifan with sensitive CYP3A4 substrates, consider increasing the sensitive CYP3A4 substrate dose in accordance with its prescribing information.
- bupivacaine implant
dapsone, bupivacaine implant. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Local anesthetics may increase the risk of developing methemoglobinemia when concurrently exposed to drugs that also cause methemoglobinemia.
- cannabidiol
cannabidiol will increase the level or effect of dapsone by decreasing metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Cannabidiol may potentially inhibit CYP2C9 activity. Consider reducing the dose when concomitantly using CYP2C9 substrates.
- carbamazepine
carbamazepine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cenobamate
cenobamate will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Increase dose of CYP3A4 substrate, as needed, when coadministered with cenobamate.
- clarithromycin
clarithromycin will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cobicistat
cobicistat will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- conjugated estrogens
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of conjugated estrogens by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- crizotinib
crizotinib increases levels of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Dose reduction may be needed for coadministered drugs that are predominantly metabolized by CYP3A.
- crofelemer
crofelemer increases levels of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Crofelemer has the potential to inhibit CYP3A4 at concentrations expected in the gut; unlikely to inhibit systemically because minimally absorbed.
- dabrafenib
dabrafenib will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- deferasirox
deferasirox will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- didanosine
didanosine increases toxicity of dapsone by unknown mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. May increase risk of nerve damage.
- digoxin
dapsone will increase the level or effect of digoxin by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Use Caution/Monitor.
- efavirenz
efavirenz will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- elagolix
elagolix will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Elagolix is a weak-to-moderate CYP3A4 inducer. Monitor CYP3A substrates if coadministered. Consider increasing CYP3A substrate dose if needed.
- elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF
elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF increases levels of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Cobicistat is a CYP3A4 inhibitor; contraindicated with CYP3A4 substrates for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events.
elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF decreases levels of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2C9/10 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Elvitegravir is a moderate CYP2C9 inducer. - encorafenib
encorafenib, dapsone. affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Encorafenib both inhibits and induces CYP3A4 at clinically relevant plasma concentrations. Coadministration of encorafenib with sensitive CYP3A4 substrates may result in increased toxicity or decreased efficacy of these agents.
- enzalutamide
enzalutamide will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- erythromycin base
erythromycin base will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- erythromycin ethylsuccinate
erythromycin ethylsuccinate will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- erythromycin lactobionate
erythromycin lactobionate will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- erythromycin stearate
erythromycin stearate will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- estradiol
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of estradiol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- estrogens conjugated synthetic
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of estrogens conjugated synthetic by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- estropipate
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of estropipate by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fedratinib
fedratinib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Adjust dose of drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates as necessary.
- iloperidone
iloperidone increases levels of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Iloperidone is a time-dependent CYP3A inhibitor and may lead to increased plasma levels of drugs predominantly eliminated by CYP3A4.
- isoniazid
isoniazid will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2E1 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
isoniazid will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. - istradefylline
istradefylline will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Istradefylline 40 mg/day increased peak levels and AUC of CYP3A4 substrates in clinical trials. This effect was not observed with istradefylline 20 mg/day. Consider dose reduction of sensitive CYP3A4 substrates.
- ketoconazole
ketoconazole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lenacapavir
lenacapavir will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Lencapavir (a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) may increase CYP3A4 substrates initiated within 9 months after last SC dose of lenacapavir, which may increase potential risk of adverse reactions of CYP3A4 substrates.
- letermovir
letermovir increases levels of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- levoketoconazole
levoketoconazole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lorlatinib
lorlatinib will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lumacaftor/ivacaftor
lumacaftor/ivacaftor, dapsone. affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2C9/10 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. In vitro studies suggest that lumacaftor may induce and ivacaftor may inhibit CYP2C9 substrates. .
- mestranol
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of mestranol by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral forms of hormone. Low risk of contraceptive failure. Use Caution/Monitor.
- methotrexate
dapsone, methotrexate. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Combination may increase risk of hematologic toxicity.
- mifepristone
mifepristone will increase the level or effect of dapsone by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Inhibits CYP2C8/2C9; use smallest recommended doses for substrates and monitor
- mitotane
mitotane decreases levels of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Mitotane is a strong inducer of cytochrome P-4503A4; monitor when coadministered with CYP3A4 substrates for possible dosage adjustments.
- nitisinone
nitisinone will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2C9/10 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Nitisinone inhibits CYP2C9. Caution if CYP2C9 substrate coadministered, particularly those with a narrow therapeutic index.
- peginterferon alfa 2b
peginterferon alfa 2b decreases levels of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2C9/10 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. When patients are administered peginterferon alpha-2b with CYP2C9 substrates, the therapeutic effect of these drugs may be altered.
- rifabutin
rifabutin will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- rifampin
rifampin will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- sodium picosulfate/magnesium oxide/anhydrous citric acid
dapsone decreases effects of sodium picosulfate/magnesium oxide/anhydrous citric acid by altering metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration with antibiotics decreases efficacy by altering colonic bacterial flora needed to convert sodium picosulfate to active drug.
- sparsentan
sparsentan will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2C9/10 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Sparsentan (a CYP2C9 inducer) decreases exposure of CYP2C9 substrates and reduces efficacy related to these substrates.
- St John's Wort
St John's Wort will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- stiripentol
stiripentol, dapsone. affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Stiripentol is a CYP3A4 inhibitor and inducer. Monitor CYP3A4 substrates coadministered with stiripentol for increased or decreased effects. CYP3A4 substrates may require dosage adjustment.
- tazemetostat
tazemetostat will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tecovirimat
tecovirimat will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Tecovirimat is a weak CYP3A4 inducer. Monitor sensitive CYP3A4 substrates for effectiveness if coadministered.
- teriflunomide
teriflunomide increases levels of dapsone by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Teriflunomide inhibits CYP2C8; caution when coadministered with CYP2C8 substrates.
- tetracaine
tetracaine, dapsone. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Monitor for signs of methemoglobinemia when methemoglobin-inducing drugs are coadministered.
Minor (77)
- acetazolamide
acetazolamide will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- alpelisib
alpelisib will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2C9/10 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- amobarbital
amobarbital will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- anastrozole
anastrozole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- aprepitant
aprepitant will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- armodafinil
armodafinil will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- artemether/lumefantrine
artemether/lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- atazanavir
atazanavir will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- balsalazide
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of balsalazide by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- biotin
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of biotin by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- bosentan
bosentan will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- budesonide
budesonide will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- butabarbital
butabarbital will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- butalbital
butalbital will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- conivaptan
conivaptan will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- cortisone
cortisone will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- cyclophosphamide
cyclophosphamide will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- cyclosporine
cyclosporine will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- darifenacin
darifenacin will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- darunavir
darunavir will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- dasatinib
dasatinib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- dexamethasone
dexamethasone will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- DHEA, herbal
DHEA, herbal will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- disulfiram
disulfiram will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2E1 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- dronedarone
dronedarone will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- eslicarbazepine acetate
eslicarbazepine acetate will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- ethanol
ethanol will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2E1 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- etravirine
etravirine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- fluconazole
fluconazole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- fludrocortisone
fludrocortisone will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- fosamprenavir
fosamprenavir will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- fosaprepitant
fosaprepitant will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- fosphenytoin
fosphenytoin will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- ganciclovir
ganciclovir increases toxicity of dapsone by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- grapefruit
grapefruit will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- griseofulvin
griseofulvin will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- hydrocortisone
hydrocortisone will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- indinavir
indinavir will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- lapatinib
lapatinib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- larotrectinib
larotrectinib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- lumefantrine
lumefantrine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- marijuana
marijuana will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- methylprednisolone
methylprednisolone will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- metronidazole
metronidazole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic enzyme CYP2E1 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
metronidazole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown. - miconazole vaginal
miconazole vaginal will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- nelfinavir
nelfinavir will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- nevirapine
nevirapine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- nifedipine
nifedipine will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- nilotinib
nilotinib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- oxcarbazepine
oxcarbazepine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- pantothenic acid
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of pantothenic acid by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- pentobarbital
pentobarbital will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- phenobarbital
phenobarbital will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- phenytoin
phenytoin will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- posaconazole
posaconazole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- prednisone
prednisone will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- primaquine
primaquine, dapsone. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Risk of hemolysis in G6PD deficient pts.
- primidone
primidone will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- probenecid
probenecid increases levels of dapsone by decreasing elimination. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- pyridoxine
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of pyridoxine by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- pyridoxine (Antidote)
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of pyridoxine (Antidote) by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- pyrimethamine
dapsone, pyrimethamine. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased bone marrow toxicity.
- quinupristin/dalfopristin
quinupristin/dalfopristin will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- ribociclib
ribociclib will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- rifapentine
rifapentine will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- ritonavir
ritonavir will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- rufinamide
rufinamide will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- secobarbital
secobarbital will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- sulfamethoxazole
sulfamethoxazole, dapsone. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing elimination. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- thiamine
dapsone will decrease the level or effect of thiamine by altering intestinal flora. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- topiramate
topiramate will decrease the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- trimethoprim
trimethoprim, dapsone. Either increases levels of the other by decreasing elimination. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- valganciclovir
valganciclovir increases toxicity of dapsone by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- verapamil
verapamil will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- voriconazole
voriconazole will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- zafirlukast
zafirlukast will increase the level or effect of dapsone by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- zidovudine
zidovudine, dapsone. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased bone marrow toxicity.
Adverse Effects
1-10%
Hemolysis
Methemoglobinemia
<1%
Reactional states (ie, abrupt changes in clinical activity occurring during any leprosy treatment; classified as reversal of erythema nodosum leprosum reactions)
Insomnia
Headache
Exfoliative dermatitis
Photosensitivity
Nausea
Vomiting
Anemia
Leukopenia
Agranulocytosis
Hepatitis
Cholestatic jaundice
Peripheral neuropathy (usually in nonleprosy patients)
Blurred vision
Tinnitus
SLE
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to drug or component
Cautions
May cause blood dyscrasias (eg, agranulocytosis); monitor closely
Peripheral neuropathy may occur
Toxic epidermal necrolysis and other dermatologic reactions may occur
Use caution when treating patients with hypersensitivity to sulfonamides
Bacterial and fungal superinfections may occur from prolonged treatments
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: Enters breast milk; not recommended (AAP Committee states "compatible with nursing")
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Sulfone; prevents normal bacterial utilization of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) for the synthesis of folic acid by acting as a competitive antagonist of PABA; it is bactericidal and bacteriostatic against Mycobacterium leprae
Absorption
Well absorbed
Peak plasma time: 4-8 hr (after ingestion)
Distribution
Protein bound: 70-90% (dapsone); 99% (metabolite)
Vd: 1.5 L/kg; throughout total body water and present in all tissues, especially liver and kidney
Metabolism
Hepatic P450 enzymes CYP2E1, CYP3A4
Elimination
Half-life: 28 hr
Excretion: Urine (85%) as metabolites
Images
BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
---|---|---|---|
dapsone oral - | 100 mg tablet | ![]() | |
dapsone oral - | 25 mg tablet | ![]() | |
dapsone oral - | 25 mg tablet | ![]() | |
dapsone oral - | 100 mg tablet | ![]() | |
dapsone oral - | 100 mg tablet | ![]() | |
dapsone oral - | 25 mg tablet | ![]() | |
dapsone oral - | 100 mg tablet | ![]() | |
dapsone oral - | 100 mg tablet | ![]() | |
dapsone oral - | 25 mg tablet | ![]() | |
Aczone topical - | 5 % gel | ![]() | |
Aczone topical - | 7.5 % gel | ![]() | |
Aczone topical - | 5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 7.5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 7.5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 7.5 % gel | ![]() | |
dapsone topical - | 7.5 % gel | ![]() |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
dapsone oral
DAPSONE - ORAL
(DAP-sone)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Avlosulfon
USES: This medication is used to treat a certain type of skin disorder (dermatitis herpetiformis). It is also used with other drugs to treat Hansen's disease. Dapsone belongs to a class of drugs known as sulfones. It works by decreasing swelling (inflammation) and stopping the growth of bacteria.This medication will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.Medications for heartburn/reducing stomach acid (such as large amounts of antacids, ranitidine, famotidine), or didanosine may prevent full absorption of dapsone into your bloodstream, possibly reducing its effectiveness. Separate your dose of dapsone from your doses of any of these products by at least 2 hours. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.If you are taking dapsone for a skin disorder, your doctor may start you on a low dose of dapsone and gradually adjust your dose to control your disease. If you are taking this medication to treat Hansen's disease or to prevent infections due to HIV, the drug is usually taken for years or for life.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on age and weight.For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time(s) every day.Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: unusually fast heartbeat, unusually fast breathing, bluish lips/skin, chest pain, mental/mood changes, muscle weakness, difficulty urinating.This drug may rarely cause very serious low blood counts (bone marrow suppression) or liver disease. Get medical help right away if you develop signs of an infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, pale skin, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, stomach/abdominal pain.Dapsone can commonly cause a rash that is usually not serious. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe reaction. Get medical help right away if you develop any rash.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking dapsone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar drugs such as sulfoxone; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: certain blood disorders (such as anemia, G6PD deficiency, methemoglobin reductase deficiency), liver disease, heart disease, lung disease, serious infection, very high blood sugar (diabetic ketosis).If using this drug to treat Hansen's disease, note that as your immune system helps fight the infection, you may notice skin sores worsening, and numbness/pain/tingling or muscle weakness. This may require special treatment, so tell your doctor right away if these symptoms occur.This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug are: folic acid antagonists (such as pyrimethamine), nitrofurantoin, primaquine.Other medications can affect the removal of dapsone from your body, which may affect how dapsone works. An example is saquinavir, among others.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: seizures, bluish skin (cyanosis), sudden vision changes, sudden loss of vision.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood counts/platelets, liver function) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.Iron, folic acid, and vitamin C might reduce the risk of developing a certain serious side effect (anemia). Ask your doctor for more details.If you are using dapsone for dermatitis herpetiformis, a gluten-free diet may improve the condition. Consult your doctor for more information.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised May 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
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