Drug interactions
Benzoyl peroxide + Dapsone
Severity: Minor
Benzoyl peroxide and Dapsone: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
When topical dapsone gel is applied together with benzoyl peroxide, a temporary yellow or orange discoloration of skin and facial hair can occur. It is cosmetic and reversible but may affect adherence.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benzoyl peroxide and Dapsone have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Benzoyl peroxide belongs to Dermatology; Dapsone belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Local chemical reaction between the two topical agents producing a coloured product; not a systemic interaction.
What to do
Warn patients about possible temporary discoloration, which fades after stopping. Consider applying the two products at different times of day.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Benzoyl peroxide
Other interactions of Dapsone
- Bcg vaccine live + Dapsone Major
- Dapsone + Primaquine Major
- Apalutamide + Dapsone Moderate
- Belzutifan + Dapsone Moderate
- Bosentan + Dapsone Moderate
- Bupivacaine implant + Dapsone Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benzoyl peroxide with Dapsone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Benzoyl peroxide and Dapsone have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. When topical dapsone gel is applied together with benzoyl peroxide, a temporary yellow or orange discoloration of skin and facial hair can occur. It is cosmetic and reversible but may affect adherence.
How serious is the interaction between Benzoyl peroxide and Dapsone?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Warn patients about possible temporary discoloration, which fades after stopping. Consider applying the two products at different times of day.
What other medicines interact with Benzoyl peroxide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Benzoyl peroxide with, for example, Methoxsalen, Porfimer, Verteporfin. The full list is on the Benzoyl peroxide page.
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