Dapsone is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent used for the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases, mainly associated with bacterial or parasitic lesions. The drug has a unique spectrum of action, which makes it indispensable in the therapy of lepra, some dermatologic conditions and prevention of certain infections in immunocompromised patients. Dapsone effectively inhibits the growth of pathogens and reduces inflammation, which contributes to tissue repair and improve the overall condition of patients.
no RX
The drug is known under the trade name Dapsone. This is the registered name under which the drug is presented in pharmacies and medical institutions all over the world.
The international nonproprietary name of this medicine is dapsone. It indicates the main active substance that provides the therapeutic effect.
The drug is available mainly in solid oral form for ease of use. The main form:
Alternatives such as powder for preparing a solution may be available in some countries, but are less common. The tablet form remains the most popular due to its ease of dosing and storage.
The main active ingredient is dapsone (diaminodiphenylsulfone), which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The excipients in the tablets include:
The exact composition may vary depending on the manufacturer, but the ingredients listed are standard for most variants.
The drug has a dual mechanism of action, which makes it unique in the therapy of certain diseases. It exhibits antibacterial activity by inhibiting the synthesis of folic acid in bacterial cells through competitive inhibition of the enzyme dihydropteroate synthetase. This process disrupts the multiplication of microorganisms such as Mycobacterium leprae, which is particularly important in the treatment of lepra. In addition, the drug demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties by reducing neutrophil activity and the production of reactive oxygen species, which is useful in autoimmune and dermatologic conditions.
The spectrum of action includes not only bacteria but also some protozoa. Efficacy is manifested with prolonged use, which requires strict adherence to the prescribed course of treatment.
Pharmacokinetic parameters provide stable accumulation and distribution of the active substance in the body.
After oral administration, the active substance is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, reaching maximum concentration in blood plasma in 2-8 hours. Bioavailability is about 70-90%, which depends on the individual characteristics of the patient and conditions of administration. Food may slow down the absorption process, but does not significantly affect the overall efficacy.
The active ingredient penetrates well into various tissues including skin, lung, liver and kidney. Binding to plasma proteins reaches 70-90%, with a significant portion bound to albumin. The ability to penetrate tissues makes the drug particularly valuable in the treatment of skin and systemic infections.
Metabolism occurs predominantly in the liver by acetylation and hydroxylation. Active metabolites are formed, such as monoacetyldapsone, which retains therapeutic activity and has a longer half-life. The rate of acetylation depends on the genetic characteristics of the patient (fast or slow acetylators).
The drug is excreted via the kidneys, partly unchanged (20-30%) and partly as metabolites. The elimination half-life varies from 10 to 50 hours, averaging about 28 hours. Prolonged excretion allows maintaining a stable concentration when taken once a day.
The medicine is used for the treatment of a number of specific diseases where antibacterial or anti-inflammatory action is required:
Prescribing is carried out only by a physician after careful diagnosis and evaluation of the sensitivity of the pathogen.
The use of the medicine is prohibited in the following cases:
With caution prescribe in blood diseases, allergic reactions in the past or bronchial asthma.
The tablets are taken orally, drinking enough water (150-200 ml). It is recommended to consume them during or after meals to reduce the likelihood of irritation of the gastric mucosa. The tablet should not be chewed or crushed unless directed by a physician.
Dosage is determined by the nature of the disease and the age of the patient:
The exact treatment regimen is adjusted depending on the response to therapy and tolerability.
If renal or hepatic dysfunction requires individual adjustment:
Drug administration may be accompanied by adverse reactions:
If severe symptoms occur, discontinue use and seek counseling.
Overdose is manifested by cyanosis (due to methemoglobinemia), nausea, vomiting, confusion, dyspnea, tachycardia.
If an overdose is suspected:
The drug may alter the effect of other drugs:
Alcohol increases the toxic effects on the liver and should be avoided. Food has no significant effect, but fatty foods may slow absorption.
Application during pregnancy is possible only if absolutely necessary, since the active substance penetrates through the placenta. During lactation the drug is excreted with milk, which requires discontinuation of feeding for the duration of therapy.
Dizziness and weakness may make it difficult to drive a car or operate machinery, especially at the beginning of treatment.
Hematologic complications occur more often in elderly patients, control of blood tests is required. In children, the drug is used with caution, starting with minimal doses.