Drug Information

What is Hydrea used for?

This medicine is used for advanced cancer of the ovary, melanoma, and chronic myelocytic leukemia. It is often used together with irradiation therapy for use in local control of primary squamous cell (epidermoid) carcimonas of the head and neck, excluding the lip.

When should Hydrea not be taken?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any ingredient of this medicine you have marked blood disorders or bone marrow suppression

What precautions should I follow when taking Hydrea?

Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical conditions, such as kidney function problems

What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Hydrea?

This medicine should be administered under the supervision of a physician experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

What are the side effects of Hydrea?

Most severe: Maculopapular rash, facial erythema, peripheral erythema, skin ulceration, drowsiness, rare instances of headache, dizziness, disorientation, hallucinations, convulsions, stomatitis, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Most common:  Inflammation of the mouth; loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; constipation; rash; redness of face; drowsiness.

Other: Fever, chills, malaise, asthenia, and elevation of hepatic enzymes; rare instances of acute pulmonary reactions (diffuse pulmonary infiltrates/fibrosis, and dyspnea).

How should I take Hydrea?

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of the medicine you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Lab tests will be required before and during treatment to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments. If you prefer, or if you are unable to swallow Capsule, empty the contents of the Capsule into water and drink at once. Some inactive parts of this medicine may not dissolve and may float on the surface. Use care when emptying the capsule into water. Do not allow the powder come into contact with the skin or mucous membrane and do not inhale the powder when opening the Capsule. If the powder is spilled, it should be immediately wiped up with a damp towel and disposed of, as should the empty Capsule. This medicine, particularly open Capsule, should be kept away from children and pets. This medicine may cause drowsiness; patients should observe caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Do not stop taking this medication without checking with your doctor. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. Patients with previous conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking this medication. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

How should Hydrea be stored?

Store at controlled room temperature between 59 degrees to 86 degrees F. Avoid excessive heat and moisture. Keep tightly closed.

General Information:

If you have any questions about your medicine, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. This medicine is only to be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.