Clofazimine
Mechanism :
Clofazimine exerts a slow bactericidal effect on Mycobacterium leprae (Hansen's bacillus). It inhibits mycobacterial growth and binds preferentially to mycobacterial DNA. It also exerts anti-inflammatory properties in controlling erythema nodosum leprosum reactions. However, its precise mechanisms of action are unknown.
Indication :
- Lepromatous leprosy
- Multidrug resistant tuberculosis
Contraindications :
There are no known contraindications.
Dosing :
2-4 mg/kg/day PO OD.
Adverse Effect :
Pigmentation from pink to brownish-black, ichthyosis, dryness, rash, pruritus, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal intolerance, conjunctival and corneal pigmentation due to clofazimine crystal deposits, discoloration of urine, faeces, sputum, sweat, elevated blood sugar; elevated ESR.
Interaction :
Dapsone: May inhibit the anti-inflammatory activity of clofazimine have not been confirmed. If leprosy-associated inflammatory reactions develop in patients being treated with dapsone and clofazimine, it is still advisable to continue treatment with both drugs.
Renal Dose :
Dose in Renal Impairment GFR (mL/min)
| 20-50 | Dose as in normal renal function |
| 10-20 | Dose as in normal renal function |
| <10 | Dose as in normal renal function |
Dose in Patients undergoing Renal Replacement Therapies
| CAPD | Not dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
| HD | Not dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
| HDF/High flux | Unknown dialysability. Dose as in normal renal function |
| CAV/VVHD | Unknown dialysability. Dose as in normal renal function |
Hepatic Dose :
Use with caution; it may be necessary to reduce dosage or prolong dosing interval if liver dysfunction occurs.