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Dapsone (Avlosulfon®) is used to prevent and treat Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia – a condition that can be fatal to immunosuppressed patients, such as children who have had a liver transplant. It can also be used to treat leprosy, malaria, arthritis, and other skin conditions.
Dapsone is taken by mouth and is available in 25- and 100-mg tablets.
Your child should take dapsone daily as directed, with or without food. It is important for your child to continue this medication as long he or she is taking immunosuppressants.
If your child misses a dose of dapsone, he or she should take it as soon as one of you remembers. If you remember within two hours of the time for your child’s next dose, however, skip the missed dose and resume the usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Common side effects of dapsone include:
Rare side effects of avlosulfon include:
Notify your coordinator if your child experiences any of these effects.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medication your child is taking, so you can be warned of interactions and prevent them.
Store dapsone at room temperature, away from heat and light.
Your child should not stop taking this medication unless advised by the transplant service. If your child has a known allergy to sulfa medications, such as Bactrim, he or she may be given this drug. A small number of patients who are allergic to sulfa drugs are also allergic to dapsone. Notify your transplant coordinator if your child develops a rash while taking dapsone.
This medication may cause photosensitivity. Make sure your child wears sunscreen and protective clothing when playing outdoors.
Not all pharmacies stock dapsone. Call your pharmacist at least five working days before you need to fill a dapsone prescription, to make sure the medication will be available.
Learn more about other Intestine Transplant Drugs.
Children's Hospital's main campus is located in the Lawrenceville neighborhood. Our main hospital address is:
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh One Children’s Hospital Way 4401 Penn Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15224
In addition to the main hospital, Children's has many convenient locations in other neighborhoods throughout the greater Pittsburgh region.
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Interested in giving to Children's Hospital? Support the hospital by making a donation online, joining our Heroes in Healing monthly donor program, or visiting our site to learn about the other ways you can give back.