Clofazimine (100mg)

Clofazimine (100mg) — Uses and Benefits

Clofazimine is used to treat leprosy (Hansen's disease) as part of a multi-drug treatment plan.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of multibacillary leprosy, always combined with other anti-leprosy medicines
• Control of leprosy reactions such as erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) in some cases

HOW IT WORKS

• It binds to bacterial DNA and blocks growth of the bacteria causing leprosy
• It also has anti-inflammatory action that helps reduce skin reactions related to leprosy
• It works slowly, so long-term regular use is needed for best results

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for common bacterial infections like throat or urine infections
• Not a treatment for viral infections such as cold or flu
• Not to be used alone for leprosy; always combined with other prescribed medicines
• Not for self-diagnosed skin conditions without a doctor's confirmation

How to Use Clofazimine (100mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily or as directed
• Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset and improve absorption
• Swallow the capsule/tablet whole with water; do not chew unless advised
• Continue the full course even if your skin looks better, as leprosy treatment is long-term
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can affect treatment success and increase resistance risk

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss several doses, inform your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original pack, out of reach of children
• Do not use beyond the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Clofazimine (100mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Reddish-brown to black discoloration of skin, especially in light-exposed areas
• Dryness and scaling of skin
• Discoloration of body fluids like tears, sweat, urine
• Stomach pain, nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Itching

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe stomach pain, vomiting, or bleeding from the gut
• Yellowing of eyes or skin (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin reaction such as blistering or peeling
• Signs of bowel obstruction such as severe cramping, bloating, and no bowel movement
• Unusual tiredness or shortness of breath

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Clofazimine (100mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to clofazimine or any ingredient in the formulation
• Have unexplained abdominal pain unless evaluated by a doctor first

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of stomach or bowel problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking other medicines for leprosy or any long-term medicines
• Have depression or other mental health conditions, as skin colour changes can affect mood

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Rifampicin, used together in leprosy treatment, may need dose timing adjustment
• Dapsone and other anti-leprosy medicines used in combination therapy
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm (QT prolonging drugs) — discuss with your doctor
• Any other prescription or over-the-counter medicine, herbal product, or supplement

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will my skin colour go back to normal after stopping the medicine?

Skin discoloration usually fades gradually over months to years after stopping treatment, though it may take time.

Can I take this medicine on an empty stomach?

It is best taken with food or milk to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.

How long will I need to take this medicine?

• Duration depends on the type of leprosy and response to treatment; your doctor will decide the full course length.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.