Dapsone - Topical/Cutaneous

Dapsone is used to treat acne (also known as pimples).

Apply Dapsone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not apply more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.

To use the topical gel, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Clean and dry the affected area before application.
3. Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected areas of the skin. Gently and completely rub the gel on the skin until it disappears.
4. Wash your hands after using.
5. Replace the cap of the tube.

Avoid any contact of this medicine with your eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if it accidentally gets into your eyes or mouth.

Discuss with your doctor if your pimples do not get better after using Dapsone for 12 weeks. The doctor will advise you if you need to continue or stop using this medicine.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.

DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Do not use Dapsone if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.

Alert your doctor if you have methaemoglobinaemia (a blood disorder characterised by abnormal production of methaemoglobin in the blood) as Dapsone may not be suitable for you.

Inform your doctor if you have an inherited condition known as G6PD deficiency (blood disorder that affects the red blood cells).

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Dapsone may cause any of the following side effects: skin oiliness, peeling, dryness, itching, and redness on the application site.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• blue or grey colour of the lips, nail beds, or skin
• severe weakness, dark coloured urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes
• rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any of these medicines:

• medicines used to treat malaria e.g. quinine, chloroquine, primaquine
• co-trimoxazole (certain antibiotic)
• topical benzoyl peroxide (other medicine for acne)

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Dapsone.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Do not freeze.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.