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Dapsone ( dap-sohn ) (Avlosulfon®) What is this medication used for? Dapsone is an antibiotic used to prevent or treat Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP).
What does it look like? • Tablet • Liquid How is it given? • By mouth (oral or po) What are the common side effects? • Low white blood cell counts (neutropenia) • Changes to liver function tests • Hives, itching, or skin rash • Skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) • Loss of appetite • Nausea • Headaches • Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
Special instructions: • Do not take dapsone with antacids, alkaline foods (such as avocado, broccoli, kale, and spinach), or alkaline drugs. These products can decrease the absorption of dapsone, making treatment less effective. • Taking this medicine with food may lessen nausea. • If itching or hives develop, stop the medicine and call a healthcare provider. • Shake the liquid dapsone well before taking each dose. Store liquid in the refrigerator. Do not use the medicine after the expiration date printed on the label. • Give a missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time. • Store tablets at room temperature. Leave the blister pack intact until ready to give a dose. The tablet must be protected from light. • Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. • Dapsone may worsen anemia in patients with glucose- 6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD). Inform health care provider immediately.
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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