e. Supply. Each 26.3-mg tablet contains the equivalent of 15-mg of primaquine
base.
6-22. DAPSONE
a. Indications. Dapsone (Avolsulfon) is indicated:
(1)
In all forms of leprosy.
(2) In combination with other antimalarial agents for the treatment of
resistant Plasmodium falciparum.
b. Usual Dosage.
(1) Leprosy--initiate small oral doses during the first few weeks until a
maintenance dose of 50-mg/day is achieved. Clients should be hospitalized for the first
few weeks of therapy and should be treated by a specialist.
(2) Malaria--25-mg daily for 21 to 28 days in combination with other
antimalarials (quinine and pyrimethamine).
c. Cautions and Warnings.
(1)
It is not rapidly effective in terminating acute attacks of malaria.
(2) It is not effective against P. falciparum gametocytes, P.vivax, or primary
tissue forms of P. falciparum.
(3) If used alone in treatment of malaria, parasites rapidly develop
(4) Periodic blood checks should be performed during entire period of
therapy. If anemia develops, the drug should be stopped and anemia treated.
(5) Use with caution in persons with a G6PD deficiency, as dapsone can
precipitate a hemolytic reaction.
d. Adverse Reactions. Dapsone can produce a wide range of adverse
reactions affecting the GI tract, the blood, skin, central nervous system, and the liver:
(1)
Nausea, vomiting, headache, psychosis.
(2)
Liver enlargement and damage.
(3)
Skin rashes.
MD0913
6-22