Does Dapsone Interact with Lidocaine Isopropyl Alcohol?
Dapsone and Lidocaine Isopropyl Alcohol have a major drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Increased risk of methemoglobinemia when used with lidocaine. The mechanism involves antibiotic-induced methemoglobinemia. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Major
- Dapsone Class
- Sulfone
- Management
- Close medical supervision required
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Dapsone and Lidocaine Isopropyl Alcohol occurs because antibiotic-induced methemoglobinemia. Clinically, this means increased risk of methemoglobinemia when used with lidocaine. This is classified as a major interaction, meaning it could cause serious harm if not properly managed. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust dosages, substitute one medication, or increase monitoring frequency.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Dapsone and your doctor is considering prescribing Lidocaine Isopropyl Alcohol (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider