Dapsone
Dapsone has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Oral and topical forms have different uses and systemic risks and are not interchangeable.
Key points
- Oral dapsone requires substantially more blood and liver monitoring than topical acne treatment.
- G6PD deficiency increases haemolysis risk, while methaemoglobinaemia can reduce oxygen delivery.
- Blue-grey lips, severe breathlessness, marked weakness or a blistering rash needs urgent care.
Listings are for comparison only. Suitability and supply depend on clinician and pharmacy checks, stock, destination rules and prescription requirements.
What Dapsone is used for
Topical dapsone may be used for acne. Oral dapsone has separate specialist uses, including dermatitis herpetiformis and selected infections.
Important safety checks
G6PD status, blood counts, liver function, pregnancy and medicines that also affect blood cells require review. Report new fatigue, pallor, dark urine, jaundice, fever, sore throat or rash promptly. Avoid combining topical dapsone with products that can cause skin discoloration unless advised.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for blue-grey lips or skin, severe breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, fainting, marked weakness, yellow skin or eyes, fever with severe illness, or a painful blistering or peeling rash.
