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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHow Dapsone Works<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Dapsone has antibacterial action through inhibition of dihydropteroate synthase, which blocks folate synthesis in susceptible bacteria [1,5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This effect limits growth of organisms such as Mycobacterium leprae and supports control of infections when used in combination regimens [1,6].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dapsone also inhibits myeloperoxidase activity in neutrophils and can reduce tissue damage in immune driven disease [1,5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This anti inflammatory action is valuable in dermatitis herpetiformis and other immune mediated conditions where symptom control relies on dampening excess response [1,2].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Clinical Uses Of Dapsone<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Dapsone remains central to multidrug therapy for Hansen disease, where it is combined with other agents to prevent resistance and secure long term control [6].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In dermatitis herpetiformis linked with coeliac disease, dapsone helps relieve blistering and itch while gluten free diet addresses the underlying trigger [1,2].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because of its anti inflammatory profile, dapsone may also be used off label in selected cases of lupus erythematosus and certain vasculitides in specialist care [1,5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These systemic uses require close monitoring for side effects and are managed in secondary or tertiary care rather than in cosmetic or routine skin services [1,5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dapsone Gel For Acne<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Dapsone gel at strengths such as 7.5% has shown benefit for moderate acne vulgaris, with pooled trials reporting marked reduction in inflammatory lesions [3].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A pooled analysis found a mean reduction in inflammatory lesion counts after twelve weeks of regular use, with most side effects mild and local [3].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reported local effects include dryness, stinging, or irritation at the application site, which often settle with adjustment of frequency or moisturiser support [3].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Topical dapsone is one of several evidence based options for acne and may be used alongside other treatments in individualised plans guided by clinicians [3].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dapsone Side Effects<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Although many people tolerate dapsone, important side effects can occur, especially with higher doses, longer courses, or unrecognised risk factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Understanding these dapsone side effects is essential for safe prescribing, monitoring, and patient counselling in any setting where the drug is used [4,5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Haematological Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The most serious haematological concerns are methaemoglobinaemia and haemolytic anaemia, which can become clinically significant without careful checks [4,5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
People with glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency have higher risk, so G6PD screening is usually recommended before systemic treatment starts [4].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dapsone can lower haemoglobin by one to two grams per decilitre in a dose related manner, which makes regular blood counts important during therapy [5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Skin, Nerve & Liver Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Skin reactions may include mild rashes as well as very rare severe reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis, which need urgent recognition [1,6].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stopping the drug at the first signs of a significant skin reaction helps reduce the risk of progression to more serious cutaneous toxicity [1].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Peripheral neuropathy with weakness or sensory change can occur, particularly with long term exposure to higher systemic doses of dapsone [5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gastrointestinal upset, including nausea or vomiting, and rare hepatotoxicity have been described, so periodic liver function tests are usually advised [1,6].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Monitoring & Safety<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Safe systemic dapsone use relies on structured monitoring, including regular blood counts, liver tests, and review of any new symptoms [4,5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Clear patient education about signs of anaemia, breathlessness, jaundice, rash, or neurological changes supports early reporting and timely review [4,5].<\/p>\n\n\n\n