Dapsone is a medicine used for certain skin conditions and some infections. You’ll see it as an oral tablet or a topical gel. Oral dapsone treats things like dermatitis herpetiformis and part of leprosy regimens; topical dapsone (usually 5%) is used for acne. It works by reducing specific types of inflammation and by killing certain bacteria. That makes it useful in a handful of skin and infectious conditions.
For many skin problems, doctors prescribe oral dapsone in doses often between 50–100 mg once daily, sometimes given every other day to reduce side effects. Topical forms are typically 5% gel applied once or twice daily for acne. Exact dose and schedule depend on the condition, other medicines you take, and your medical history. Never change dose without talking to your prescriber.
Before you start dapsone, your provider should check for G6PD deficiency. People with G6PD deficiency can get severe hemolysis (red blood cell breakdown) from dapsone. Expect a baseline blood count (CBC) and periodic CBCs after starting treatment. Early follow-up labs often happen 2–4 weeks after beginning therapy, then periodically after that.
Know the warning signs: look for sudden tiredness, fast heartbeat, pale or yellow skin, dark urine, or shortness of breath—these can point to hemolysis. If lips or skin turn bluish or you feel unusually short of breath, that may indicate methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious side effect. Both problems need urgent medical attention.
Dapsone can interact with other drugs. Some antibiotics and medicines that change liver enzymes may alter dapsone levels and increase side effects. Tell your clinician about all prescription meds, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Your pharmacist can also flag interactions.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor. Dapsone crosses the placenta and appears in breast milk; sometimes it’s used if the benefit outweighs risks, but that decision needs a careful discussion.
Topical dapsone gives fewer systemic effects, but local irritation, dryness, or redness can happen. Apply only to clean, dry skin and avoid other strong topical products (like benzoyl peroxide) unless your clinician okays them.
Practical advice: get baseline labs before starting, carry a list of your meds, report any new fatigue or breathlessness right away, and keep follow-up lab appointments. If you miss a dose, don’t double up—take the next scheduled dose or check with your provider.
Questions? Ask your doctor or pharmacist for specifics about your situation. They can explain the right dose for your condition, what tests you need, and how to spot problems early so you can use dapsone safely.
