dapsone (DDS) /dap″sōn/ , a bacteriostatic and bactericidal sulfone derivative. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of leprosy and dermatitis herpetiformis and for prophylaxis against toxoplasmosis and Pneumocystis carinii in immunocompromised patients. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse reactions are hemolysis (particularly in people who have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency), leprosy reactional state, methemoglobinemia, neuropathy, nausea, anorexia, toxic hepatic aplastic anemia, and skin rash. Dapsone was carcinogenic in animal models.
