What is Clofazimine?
Lamprene, an active component of Clofazimine, as well as its action on the organism, make the medication highly appreciated among people affected by leprosy. Flare-ups of Hansen’s disease can be decreased with the help of this powerful treatment, especially if it is combined with other drugs. Cortisone-like drugs are frequently prescribed together with Clofazimine for advanced results. Additionally, the treatment can be used off-label for other conditions and health complications.
Recommendations for Use
To experience the maximal Clofazimine results one should obligatory consult a healthcare provider before the medication course. Follow the prescription and safety recommendations to benefit from the therapy and significantly decrease the symptoms of this devastating condition. Clofazimine serves an oral medication that should be administered with food or milk. Take the drug for the whole duration of the course to clear up the issue. Keep in mind that the symptoms of leprosy may disappear earlier than the condition is completely eliminated. The full medication course sometimes lasts up to 2 years or the whole life. Once you stop Clofazimine use too early, you risk regaining the condition.
Do not miss the doses, since it will decrease the possible effect. It is preferable to administer the drug at the same time each single day. While the dose will vary depending on the patient’s condition, its severity and other features, the patient should never use more or less than prescribed by the doctor. Your healthcare provider can occasionally change the adjusted dose for a better effect; though never do anything without his/her notice. An average Clofazimine dose for adults ranges from 50 mg to 100 mg a day. Never pass the medication to other patients, even though they may share your symptoms.
Precautions and Contraindications
It is essential to consult a healthcare provider primarily to the beginning of the medication course. Provide your specialist with a complete list of health disorders you have, since some of them may change the route of the treatment process. Do not even start Clofazimine administration in case you are sensitive to Lamprene or other ingredients of the treatment. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are contraindicated to the drug intake due to a high risk of harmful side effects and dangerous impacts on the health of unborn and nursing children.
Check the condition with your healthcare provider in case of unsuccessful treatment for 1-3 months. Probably, some changes or reinforcements are required. It may take over half a year to witness considerable changes and issue improvements. Clofazimine may influence the results of certain medical tests, so inform your doctor about the treatment course.
Drug Interactions
Clofazimine is frequently combined with other pharmaceuticals for a better effect, though, there are numerous drugs that will interact with this drug, causing dangerous side effects. It is inevitable to provide the doctor with a detailed list of all the medications, vitamins and supplements you administer. The drug should not be used together with Magnesium Hydroxide, Aluminum Hydroxide, Phenytoin, Fosphenytoin and others.
Side Effects
Call your doctor or seek emergency help in case Clofazimine intake activated serious complications, including allergic reactions, bloody stools, depression, anxiety, confusion, abdominal pain, jaundice, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, itching, decreased appetite and others.