This medicine is used to treat various types of leprosy and to control a skin condition called dermatitis herpetiformis. It may also be prescribed for other conditions.

Proper Use

Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor for the length of time prescribed, even if you feel better. If you have leprosy, you may have to take this medicine for a long time.

Do not miss a dose, and do not take double doses. You may need to follow a gluten-free diet. Ask your doctor about this.

Please Note

Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or any similar medicine.

If dermatitis herpetiformis does not improve in a few days or if it gets worse, contact your doctor.

If symptoms of leprosy do not improve in 2 to 3 months, contact your doctor.

This medicine may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Do not drive or operate machinery unless you are fully alert and can see clearly.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding an infant.

Possible Side Effects

Serious (report these to your doctor right away): Stomach pain, fever, loss of appetite, pale skin, skin rash, muscle weakness.

Other: Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, bluish lips or skin.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Possible Drug Interactions

When you take this medicine with other medicines, it may increase or decrease the effects of the medicines. Or the combination may cause harmful side effects. Some medicines that may interact with this medicine are:

• activated charcoal
• didanosine (Videx)
• para-aminobenzoic acid (Potaba)
• probenecid (Benemid)
• pyrimethamine (Daraprim)
• rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane)
• trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra).

Be sure that you tell all doctors who treat you about all medicines you are taking, including nonprescription products.

This educational document includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Other Names For This Medication:

dapsone, oral