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Dapsone

Prescription
Sulfone Antibacterial / Immunomodulator
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Inhibits bacterial folic acid synthesis and has anti-inflammatory properties: inhibits neutrophil myeloperoxidase, suppresses chemotaxis, and modulates complement activation.

At a glance

Class
Sulfone Antibacterial / Immunomodulator
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for immune-mediated skin diseases (pemphigus foliaceus, vasculitis)
Dose
1 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8–12h
🐈

Cat

Cats are highly susceptible to dapsone toxicity (methemoglobinemia, hemolytic an
Dose
1 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

CBC every 2 weeks for first 3 months, then monthlyReticulocyte countMethemoglobinHepatic enzymes
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Aczone

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Dapsone?
Dapsone is a sulfone antibacterial / immunomodulator used in pets. Inhibits bacterial folic acid synthesis and has anti-inflammatory properties: inhibits neutrophil myeloperoxidase, suppresses chemotaxis, and modulates complement activation.
What is Dapsone used for in pets?
Dapsone is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for immune-mediated skin diseases (pemphigus foliaceus, vasculitis); Cats are highly susceptible to dapsone toxicity (methemoglobinemia, hemolytic an.
What is the Dapsone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dapsone is typically dosed as follows — Used for immune-mediated skin diseases (pemphigus foliaceus, vasculitis): 1 mg/kg PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Dapsone dose for cats?
For cats, Dapsone is typically dosed as follows — Cats are highly susceptible to dapsone toxicity (methemoglobinemia, hemolytic an: 1 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Dapsone need a prescription?
Yes. Dapsone is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database
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