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Dapsone
Available:
25 mg and 100 mg tablets
Dose: 25
mg to 200 mg daily
Cost: 25
mg tablets, #30 = 10.56; 100 mg tablets, #30 = $10.85
Indications:
Treatment of refractory cutaneous (skin only) lupus; has
also been used to treat Beh�et�s disease and cutaneous
vasculitis
Side
effects: A rash may develop and is more commonly seen in
patients allergic to sulfa drugs. Nausea and vomiting are
infrequently seen. Anemia may also develop and is more common
in patients who are of Afro-American or Mediterranean
descent. Low white blood cells, elevations of liver enzymes,
and nerve pain may occur in certain individuals.
Monitoring:
Baseline blood counts and G6PD level (this enzyme
deficiency makes patients prone to anemia) as well as kidney
and liver enzymes are recommended. Blood counts can be
repeated monthly until stable and every 3-6 months
thereafter. Blood chemistries may be repeated every 6 months
or so.
Important
points to know: Patients with a deficiency in G6PD should
not take this drug. Patients allergic to sulfa drugs and
certain diuretics are more prone to allergic reactions to
dapsone. To minimize stomach side effects, this medication
should be taken with food.
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