WHO recommended MDT regimens
MDT drugs
Rifampicin is given once a month. No toxic effects have been reported in the case of monthly administration. The urine may be coloured slightly reddish for a few hours after its intake, this should be explained to the patient while starting MDT.
Clofazimine is most active when administered daily. The drug is well tolerated and virtually non-toxic in the dosage used for MDT. The drug causes brownish black discoloration and dryness of skin. However, this disappears within few months after stopping treatment. This should be explained to patients starting MDT regimen for MB leprosy.
This drug is very safe in the dosage used in MDT and side effects are rare. The main side effect is allergic reaction, causing itchy skin rashes and exfoliative dermatitis. Patients known to be allergic to any of the sulpha drugs should not be given dapsone.
Multibacillary (MB) leprosy
For adults the standard regimen is: Rifampicin: 600 mg once a month Dapsone: 100 mg daily Clofazimine: 300 mg once a month and 50 mg daily Duration= 12 months.
Paucibacillary (PB) leprosy
For adults the standard regimen is: Rifampicin: 600 mg once a month Dapsone: 100 mg daily Duration= six months
Single Skin Lesion Paucibacillary leprosy
For adults the standard regimen is a single dose of: Rifampicin: 600 mg Ofloxacin: 400 mg Minocycline: 100 mg
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