Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Aczone (Dapsone-topical).
Blood counts: When taken in the pill form, dapsone can cause decreased numbers of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection) and red blood cells. This is not expected to occur with dapsone topical gel, but if you experience signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, or sore throat) or anemia (e.g., fatigue, paleness), stop using the medication and contact your doctor immediately.
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD): People who lack the enzyme G6PD may be more at risk of developing anemia. If you have G6PD deficiency, discuss with your doctor how Aczone (Dapsone-topical) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Aczone (Dapsone-topical), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Other acne treatments: Applying any medication containing benzoyl peroxide at the same time as applying dapsone topical gel can cause the skin to temporarily yellow or orange. The use of other topical acne medications may cause increased irritation to the skin.
Methemoglobinemia: There have been reports of methemoglobinemia in people using Aczone (Dapsone-topical). Methemoglobinemia is a condition in which an abnormal level of methemoglobin is produced in the blood, resulting in less oxygen reaching tissues in the body. People with G6PD deficiency and a history of methemoglobinemia should avoid using Aczone (Dapsone-topical). If you develop bluish or grey lips, mouth, or nail beds, contact your doctor immediately.
Pancreatitis: When taken in the pill form, dapsone can cause inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). This is not expected to occur with dapsone topical gel, but if you experience symptoms of pancreatitis, such as persistent low-grade fever or abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, stop using Aczone (Dapsone-topical) and contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Self-harm: Although rare, there have been reports of people having suicidal thoughts or wanting to hurt themselves while taking Aczone (Dapsone-topical). If you experience these side effects or notice them in a family member who is taking Aczone (Dapsone-topical), contact your doctor immediately. If you have a history of Depression or other mental illness, you should be closely monitored by your doctor for emotional and behaviour changes while taking Aczone (Dapsone-topical).
Severe skin reactions: When taken in the pill form, dapsone can cause severe skin reactions. This is not expected to occur with dapsone topical gel, but if you experience symptoms of fever, blistering, redness, or peeling, stop using Aczone (Dapsone-topical) and contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Pregnancy: Aczone (Dapsone-topical) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Aczone (Dapsone-topical), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Aczone (Dapsone-topical) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are using dapsone topical gel, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Aczone (Dapsone-topical) have not been established for children less than 12 years old.
