Dapsone Monitoring Information 

This leaflet provides additional information about the monitoring required while you are taking dapsone. It should be read alongside the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) patient information leaflet.

What is Dapsone?

Dapsone is an anti‑inflammatory and antibacterial medicine used to treat a range of skin and immune‑related conditions. Because it can affect red blood cells, liver function, and kidney function, regular monitoring is required throughout treatment.

What tests are needed?

You will need blood tests during treatment to check:

• Full blood count (blood cells)
• Liver function
• Kidney function.

Before starting dapsone, a blood test is usually performed to check for G6PD deficiency, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How often are tests done?

• Weekly for the first four weeks
• Then monthly for three months
• Then every three months if stable.

Your doctor may adjust how often tests are needed depending on your results.

Please ensure you keep up to date with your blood tests and arrange timely appointments with your GP or at South Walks House.

The South Walks House clinic is located next to Dorchester Library. Phlebotomy clinics operate Monday to Friday, from 8am to 4.30pm. To book an appointment at any of the clinics, please call 01305 254822 between 11am and 2pm. An answerphone service is available after 2pm.

Important points to remember

• Keep up to date with your blood tests and arrange appointments promptly
• Inform your doctor about any new medications, including over-the-counter or herbal products
• Attend all scheduled monitoring to ensure your treatment remains safe.

When should I seek medical advice?

Contact your doctor if you develop:

• Breathlessness or shortness of breath
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Dark urine
• Bluish lips or fingers
• Headache or dizziness.

Contact numbers

We hope that you have found this information useful. If you have any questions or are worried about anything, please speak to the following Dorset County Hospital staff:

Dermatology Department 01305 255118 (answer machine, monitored daily) dermatologypractitioners@dchft.nhs.uk

About this leaflet

Authors: Harriet Matthews, Nursing Associate, Dr. Ghadah Al-Sharbatee
Written: February 2026
Approved: May 2026
Review date: May 2026
Edition: v1

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk