Dapsone

The Basics

What is Dapsone?

Used to treat leprosy (Hansen’s disease) and to help control dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin problem.

Brand names for Dapsone

Dapsone

How Dapsone is classified

Anti-Infective Agents, Leprostatic Agents

Dapsone During Pregnancy

Dapsone pregnancy category

Category CNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.

What we know about taking Dapsone while pregnant

Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category C Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with dapsone. Extensive, but uncontrolled experience and two published surveys on the use of dapsone in pregnant women have not shown that dapsone increases the risk of fetal abnormalities if administered during all trimesters of pregnancy or can affect reproduction capacity. Because of the lack of animal studies or controlled human experience, dapsone should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. In general, for leprosy, USPHS at Carville recommends maintenance of dapsone. Dapsone has been important for the management of some pregnant D.H. patients.

Taking Dapsone While Breastfeeding

What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Dapsone?

Dapsone can be used during breastfeeding; however, hemolytic anemia might occur, especially in newborn infants and in those with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. The time of greatest risk for hemolysis in fullterm newborns without G6PD deficiency might be as short as 8 days after birth.[1] One source states that use of dapsone in the treatment of leprosy is advantageous because it kills the organisms in breastmilk.[2] Monitor the infant for signs of hemolysis, especially in newborn or premature breastfed infants. Topical dapsone gel used to treat acne has not been studied during breastfeeding. According to the manufacturer, topical dapsone gel results in a blood level of 1% that of a 100 mg oral dose. It is unlikely that the topical gel would affect the breastfed infant, but the manufacturer states that it should not be used during nursing. Until more data are available, an alternative topical agent might be preferred.

Maternal / infant drug levels

Dapsone can be used during breastfeeding; however, hemolytic anemia might occur, especially in newborn infants and in those with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. The time of greatest risk for hemolysis in fullterm newborns without G6PD deficiency might be as short as 8 days after birth.[1] One source states that use of dapsone in the treatment of leprosy is advantageous because it kills the organisms in breastmilk.[2] Monitor the infant for signs of hemolysis, especially in newborn or premature breastfed infants. Topical dapsone gel used to treat acne has not been studied during breastfeeding. According to the manufacturer, topical dapsone gel results in a blood level of 1% that of a 100 mg oral dose. It is unlikely that the topical gel would affect the breastfed infant, but the manufacturer states that it should not be used during nursing. Until more data are available, an alternative topical agent might be preferred.

Possible effects of Dapsone on milk supply

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Possible alternatives to Dapsone

(Leprosy) Clofazimine; (Topical for Acne) Adapalene; Azelaic Acid; Benzoyl Peroxide; Clindamycin; Erythromycin; Tretinoin.