Clofazimine - oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Clofazimine is used together with other medicines to treat leprosy (bacterial infection that affects the skin, mucous membrane, and nerves).

This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Clofazimine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Take it together with food or immediately after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not open the capsule.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection.

Take Clofazimine at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • stomach or bowel problems e.g. stomach pain, diarrhoea
  • at risk for heart rhythm disorder
  • history of depression
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Do not wear contact lenses during treatment as this medicine may stain the contact lenses.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
  • Pregnancy tests must be done before starting the treatment to know if this medicine is suited for you to take.
  • Routine tests (e.g. liver and kidney function, ECG [test used to record the electrical activity of the heart]) may be done while you are being treated with Clofazimine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
  • Regular monitoring for skin discolouration, bowel reactions, and signs of depression may also be needed.
What side effects could I experience?
Clofazimine may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, eye irritation, dryness, or burning sensation; tiredness, and skin dryness or itching.

Your urine and faeces may look slightly orange-pink or red to brownish-black in colour. This is normal while you are being treated with this medicine. It may also cause discolouration of your saliva, sweat, tears, semen, and breast milk. This is harmless, do not be alarmed.

Clofazimine may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
  • nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain; passing out bloody stools or black as tar, vomiting blood, or ground coffee-like material
  • rapid, irregular or abnormal heartbeat
  • having thoughts of self-harm
  • unusual changes in mood or behaviour (being too depressed)
  • rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
  • medicines for mood disorders e.g. pimozide, thioridazine
  • bedaquiline (medicine to treat infection known as tuberculosis)
  • dronedarone (medicine for irregular heartbeat)
  • cisapride (medicine for stomach problems)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Clofazimine.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from moisture.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on clofazimine - oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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