What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Dapsone
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Product Details
Description
Dapsone is an antibiotic that is commonly used to treat leprosy and a skin condition called dermatitis herpetiformis. It belongs to a group of medications known as sulfones and works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Doctors often prescribe Dapsone along with other medicines to treat leprosy. It can also help prevent certain types of pneumonia in people who have weak immune systems. In addition, healthcare professionals may prescribe Dapsone for various other medical issues as needed.
Fact Table
Formula
C12H12N2O2S
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
70-80% (oral)
Legal status
Prescription only (Rx)
Chemical Name
4,4'-Diaminodiphenyl sulfone
Elimination half-life
20-30 hours
Dosage (Strength)
25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg tablets
Pregnancy
Consult a doctor (Category C)
Brands
Aczone, Avlosulfon, Dapsone
Protein binding
70-90%
PubChem CID
2955
MedlinePlus
a682128
ChEBI
4325
ATC code
J04BA02
DrugBank
DB00250
KEGG
D00593
Routes of administration
Oral, topical
Directions
Dapsone is typically prescribed to be taken orally in tablet form. The dosage largely depends on the condition being treated, but it’s usually taken once daily. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions about how much to take and how often. This helps make sure the medicine works well and reduces the chances of side effects. When taking Dapsone, try to take it at the same time each day. Always swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water; don't crush or chew them.
Ingredients
Dapsone's active ingredient is itself the same-named substance, Dapsone.
Contraindications
Healthcare providers typically recommend patients avoid this medication if they have a known hypersensitivity to Dapsone or its ingredients.
Cautions
- Before starting treatment with Dapsone, be sure to inform your healthcare provider about the following:
- Any medical conditions you currently have
- Any allergies
- All medications you are currently taking
- Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Dapsone should be used carefully if you have kidney or liver problems, or if you have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as it can cause severe health issues in these conditions.
- It's important to treat any severe anemia before starting Dapsone. Regular blood tests are needed to check for effects like hemolytic anemia, especially if you have conditions that increase your risk.
- Be alert for symptoms like a sore throat, fever, unusual bruising or bleeding, or yellowing of the skin (jaundice). These can indicate serious side effects that may require stopping the medication.
- If you have heart or lung disease, be aware that hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells) caused by Dapsone can worsen your condition.
- Dapsone can cause serious skin reactions, which might include widespread rashes, blistering, and shedding of skin. If you notice any new or worsening skin problems, stop taking Dapsone and seek medical help right away.
- Toxic hepatitis and jaundice are rare but serious risks. Monitor liver function before and during treatment. If liver function tests become abnormal, Dapsone should be discontinued.
- Be cautious of interactions with other drugs, especially those that affect blood cells like folic acid antagonists. If you’re taking medications like pyrimethamine along with Dapsone, you’ll need closer monitoring.
Side Effects
Dapsone may cause several side effects, especially at doses above 100 mg daily. Common side effects may include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, insomnia, and various skin disorders. These effects are generally dose-related and more common at higher dosages.
Serious reactions include the rare but dangerous "Dapsone syndrome," a hypersensitivity condition that typically appears within the first six weeks of treatment. This syndrome can develop with a rash, fever, and a host of other symptoms including liver issues, severe skin reactions, and in extreme cases, can be fatal. Other severe reactions can include agranulocytosis, peripheral neuropathy, and effects on the kidneys. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if any unusual or serious effects occur.
References
- Dapsone Product Monograph. Warriewood, AU: Link Medical Products Pty Ltd; 2024.
- Dapsone Drug Label Information. Princeton, NJ: Jacobus Pharmaceutical Company, Inc.; 2022.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 10004
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