Aczone (Dapsone) is a topical gel used to treat acne by targeting inflammation and bacteria in the skin. It is effective in reducing breakouts with minimal systemic absorption. While generally well tolerated, it requires caution in individuals with specific blood conditions. Always use it under dermatological supervision for best results.
Common Use
Aczone is a topical gel — a gel you put on your skin — used to treat acne vulgaris in adolescents and adults. That’s the common type of acne we all know: red spots, whiteheads, blackheads, the kind that can pop up at the worst times, whether you’re a teenager or a grown adult who thought you’d left it behind.
It contains dapsone, which works in two ways: it fights bacteria and it reduces inflammation. So it helps with the redness, the swelling, and the number of pimples you get. Think of it as calming things down while also clearing out the troublemakers.
Dosage and Direction
Apply a thin layer of Aczone gel — either the 5% or 7.5% strength — to the affected area once or twice a day, exactly as your doctor tells you. Wash your face and dry it well before applying. Be careful to avoid your eyes, lips, and the inside of your nose or mouth — this stuff is for the skin only.
Precautions
There’s an important thing to know: use Aczone with caution if you have G6PD deficiency. That’s a genetic condition — more common in people from Mediterranean backgrounds, including many Cypriots — where your body doesn’t handle certain medications well, and there’s a risk of hemolysis (that’s when your red blood cells break down faster than they should).
Before using Aczone, tell your doctor if you have:
A history of anemia (low red blood cells)
Liver issues
Methemoglobinemia — a rare blood disorder
This medication is for external use only — don’t swallow it. And keep it away from your eyes, because it will sting.
Contraindications
Do not use Aczone if you are allergic to dapsone or to medications that contain sulfones. It’s also not recommended for people with severe anemia or certain blood disorders unless your doctor is keeping a close eye on you.
Possible Side Effect
Common side effects are usually mild and happen where you apply the gel:
Dryness
Redness
Oiliness (sometimes your skin gets greasy before it settles)
Peeling
Rarer but more serious side effects include:
Hemolytic anemia — especially in people with G6PD deficiency. Signs include unusual fatigue, pale skin, or dark urine.
Methemoglobinemia — a condition where your blood doesn’t carry oxygen properly. Signs include bluish lips or fingers, headache, and trouble breathing.
If you notice any of these, seek medical help right away.
Drug Interaction
Be careful if you’re also taking:
Oral dapsone (the tablet form)
Antimalarials (medications for malaria)
Oxidizing agents — certain drugs that can stress your red blood cells
There’s also a special note: if you use benzoyl peroxide (a common acne treatment) together with Aczone, it may cause temporary yellow or orange discoloration of your skin. It’s not harmful, but it can be a bit alarming if you don’t expect it. You can avoid it by applying them at different times of the day — one in the morning, one at night.
Always tell your doctor about all the skincare products and medications you’re using — both on your skin and taken by mouth.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. But if it’s almost time for your next application, skip the missed one. Don’t apply extra to make up for it — more gel won’t work better and could irritate your skin.
Overdose
An overdose from using it on your skin is very unlikely. But if someone accidentally swallows it — especially a child — it can be serious. In that case, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
Storage
Store Aczone at room temperature — between 20°C and 25°C. Do not freeze it. Keep the tube tightly closed and somewhere children and pets can’t reach.
Online Pharmacy Info
Our online pharmacy, cydoctors.com, is based right here in Cyprus. Whether you’re a teenager dealing with acne before school or an adult who’s had enough of breakouts, waiting around for your treatment is the last thing you want. That’s why we deliver in the shortest time possible. We offer overnight delivery to Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca — so wherever you are on the island, you can get what you need quickly and without the fuss.
Disclaimer
We provide only general information about medications. This does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. Information on the site cannot be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your healthcare adviser or the doctor in charge of your case. We do not guarantee the reliability of this information and cannot be held responsible for any errors it may contain. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, or other damage resulting from the use of information on this site, nor for the consequences of self-treatment.
