Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Dapsona? Is Dapsona safe for nursing mother and child? Does Dapsona extracts into breast milk? Does Dapsona has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Dapsona influence milk supply or can Dapsona decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Dapsona lactation summary

Dapsona usage has low risk in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Dapsona is 3 out of 8 which is considered Low Risk as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 3 indicates that usage of Dapsona may cause some minor side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that Dapsona may cause moderate to no side effects in lactating mother.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Dapsona low risk in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • While using Dapsona We suggest monitoring child for possible reactions. It is also important to understand that side effects vary largely based on age of breastfed child and time of medication in addition to dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Dapsona usage in lactation

One case of hemolytic anemia has been described. Check-up for development of jaundice in the infant. Avoid its use in patients affected of G-6-PD deficiency. American Academy of Pediatrics: Maternal Medication Usually Compatible With Breastfeeding.

Answer by DrLact: About Dapsona usage in lactation

Dapsona can be used during breastfeeding; however, hemolytic anemia might occur, especially in newborn infants and in those with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. The time of greatest risk for hemolysis in fullterm newborns without G6PD deficiency might be as short as 8 days after birth.[1] One source states that use of Dapsona in the treatment of leprosy is advantageous because it kills the organisms in breastmilk.[2] Monitor the infant for signs of hemolysis, especially in newborn or premature breastfed infants. Topical Dapsona gel used to treat acne has not been studied during breastfeeding. According to the manufacturer, topical Dapsona gel results in a blood level of 1% that of a 100 mg oral dose. It is unlikely that the topical gel would affect the breastfed infant, but the manufacturer states that it should not be used during nursing. Until more data are available, an alternative topical agent might be preferred.

Dapsona Side Effects in Breastfeeding

A case of mild hemolytic anemia occurred in a 41-day-old breastfed infant whose mother was taking Dapsona 50 mg daily. The hemolysis was probably caused by Dapsona in milk.[3] A woman with leprosy took Dapsona, clofazimine and rifampin during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Her infant developed skin discoloration attributed to clofazimine which reversed 3 months after cessation of breastfeeding.[5]

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Saquinavir(Unsafe)
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Rifabutin(Low Risk)
Dapsone(Low Risk)
Rifampin(Safe)
Clofazimine(Low Risk)
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.