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Compare Dapsone vs. Tretinoin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Dapsone
    Retin-a (tretinoin)
  • Dapsone
    Retin-a (tretinoin)

  • Summary of Dapsone vs. Tretinoin

    Summary for Sulfone
    Prescription only

    Dapsone is a tablet that's used for treating a skin condition called dermatitis herpetiformis and leprosy in children and adults. It belongs to the drug class known as sulfones. This medication is typically taken by mouth once a day. Side effects can include low red blood cells, nausea, and stomach pain. Dapsone is no longer available as a brand name, and only comes as a generic.

    Summary for Retinoid
    Prescription only

    Retin-A (tretinoin) is a retinoid medication that's used to treat acne in adults and children 12 years and older. It's available as a cream or a gel that's applied onto the skin once a day. Side effects include skin irritation, redness, and peeling. Your acne might get worse at the beginning of treatment, but it should get better as you continue using the medication. You must have a prescription for Retin-A (tretinoin) from your primary care provider or dermatologist; this medication isn't available over the counter.

  • Indications of Dapsone vs. Tretinoin

    Indications for
    •Dermatitis herpetiformis
    •Leprosy
    Indications for
    •Acne

  • Pros and Cons of Dapsone vs. Tretinoin

    Pros and Const for Sulfone
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day
    •Works to relieve itching from dermatitis herpetiformis within days of starting
    •Option for children
    Cons
    •Can cause serious blood-related side effects
    •Must be taken with other medications to treat leprosy
    •Not safe to take while breastfeeding
    Pros and Const for Retinoid
    Pros
    •Easy to apply onto your skin
    •Only need to apply once nightly
    •Available in a lower-cost generic form
    Cons
    •Makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to sunburns
    •Can cause your skin color to temporarily become lighter or darker
    •Might worsen your acne during the first few weeks of treatment

  • Common Side Effects of Dapsone vs. Tretinoin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Lower red blood cell counts
    •Numbness or tingling
    •Muscle weakness
    •Nausea and vomiting
    •Stomach pain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Skin peeling or discomfort
    •Warm feeling or stinging after applying
    •Skin redness
    •Sensitivity to sunlight (sunburns)
    •Worsening of acne in the first few weeks of treatment

  • Warnings of Dapsone vs. Tretinoin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Low blood cell counts
    •Severe skin reactions
    •Liver damage and jaundice
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sunburns
    •Skin irritation in extreme weather
    •Skin reactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Dapsone vs. Tretinoin

    Learn more about Dapsone
    Learn more about Retin-a

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