✅ Active Ingredient Overview Table:
| 🔬 Active Ingredient (Generic Name): | Dapsone 5% w/w |
|---|---|
| 💊 Indication: | Acne Vulgaris (Inflammatory Lesions & Papulopustular Acne) |
| 🇺🇸 US Brand Equivalent: | Aczone (Dapsone 5% Gel) |
| 🏭 Manufacturer: | Cipla Limited (Founded: 1935) |
| 📦 Packaging: | 15 g Tube |
| 🧪 Strength: | 5% w/w |
| 🚚 Delivery Time: | 6–15 days |
🌿 What is Acnedap Gel 5%?
Acnedap Gel contains Dapsone 5%, a sulfone antibiotic with anti-inflammatory properties, formulated for topical treatment of acne vulgaris. It is specifically indicated for inflammatory papules and pustules. By reducing neutrophil-mediated inflammation and exhibiting antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes, Dapsone helps decrease lesion counts and erythema. Acnedap offers twice-daily application with a non-greasy gel base, suitable for most skin types, including oily and combination skin.
🧬 Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C12H12N2O2S |
| Molecular Weight | 248.30 g/mol |
| Mechanism | • Antibacterial: Inhibits dihydropteroate synthase → disrupts folate synthesis in bacteria (e.g., C. acnes) • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces neutrophil chemotaxis & myeloperoxidase-derived oxidants → decreases erythema and inflammation |
| Vehicle | Aqueous gel: Enhances penetration, non-comedogenic, and minimizes skin irritation |
💡 Indications & Application Guidelines
| Condition | Application Regimen |
|---|---|
| Inflammatory Acne Vulgaris | • Cleanse affected area with mild cleanser; pat dry. • Apply a thin layer of Acnedap Gel twice daily (morning & evening) to entire affected area. • Duration: Use for at least 12 weeks to assess full efficacy; continue based on clinical response. |
| Papulopustular Lesions | • Cleanse skin; apply gel to lesions and surrounding skin twice daily. • Monitor for improvement over 4–6 weeks; combine with other topical/oral agents as needed. |
- Preparation: Wash hands and acne-prone areas; remove residual makeup or oil.
- Application: Dispense pea-sized amount; gently spread over entire affected region (e.g., face, chest, back).
- Frequency: Twice daily. If irritation or dryness occurs, reduce application to once daily.
- Precautions: Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Do not occlude treated areas unless directed. In patients with G6PD deficiency, use cautiously and monitor for hemolysis.
⚠️ Warnings & Side Effects
Common:
- Dryness, peeling
- Erythema, burning/stinging sensation
- Contact dermatitis (mild)
Less Common:
- Rare hemolysis in G6PD-deficient patients
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, urticaria)
Serious (Rare):
- Methemoglobinemia (monitor for cyanosis, fatigue) • Onset: weeks after initiation, particularly in G6PD-deficient individuals
- Severe allergic dermatitis
Precautions:
- G6PD Deficiency: Test before use; discontinue if signs of hemolysis appear (e.g., dark urine, jaundice).
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Use only if benefits outweigh risks; limited data available.
- Pediatric Use: Safety not established in children < 12 years; monitor for systemic absorption.
- Sun Exposure: Use sunscreen; Dapsone may increase photosensitivity.
- Concurrent Topicals: Avoid combining with benzoyl peroxide or topical retinoids without physician guidance due to potential for increased irritation.
🏥 Storage Instructions
Store Acnedap Gel at 20–25°C (68–77°F) in its original tube. Protect from light and heat. Ensure cap is tightly closed after each use. Keep out of reach of children.
🌐 Global Availability & Purchasing
- United States: Prescription required; branded as Aczone. Generic topical Dapsone gels are available.
- United Kingdom & EU: Prescription-only; Dapsone gel formulations prescribed by dermatologists.
- Australia: Prescription necessary; available under PBS or private script.
Importing Acnedap Gel from India can reduce costs. Ensure compliance with local personal importation regulations and maintain a valid prescription to avoid customs delays.
🔗 Authoritative Resources
- Drugs.com: Dapsone Topical Monograph
- NHS: Acne Vulgaris Treatment Guidelines
- American Academy of Dermatology: Acne Guidelines
🔗Related Acne Therapies (Indian Brands)
- Clindac A Gel 15 g – Clindamycin Phosphate 1% for inflammatory acne.
- Benzac 5% Gel 15 g – Benzoyl Peroxide 5% for comedonal and inflammatory lesions.
- Aziderm 10% Gel 20 g – Azelaic Acid 10% for inflammatory and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
🎥 Educational Video on Topical Dapsone in Acne
👨⚕️ Expert Insight: Dr. Priya Sharma, Dermatologist
“Topical Dapsone 5% offers a unique anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect for acne patients, particularly those with inflammatory papules and pustules. It is generally well-tolerated, but monitoring G6PD status is critical to ensure safety.”

