Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Hydroxyurea is prescribed on its own or in combination with other medications or radiation therapy to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), a type of cancer that affects white blood cells. It is also used to treat certain types of head and neck cancer, including cancer of the mouth, cheek, tongue, throat, tonsils, and sinuses.
Hydroxyurea is used to decrease the frequency of painful crises and decrease the need for blood transfusions in individuals who have sickle cell anemia, an inherited blood disorder in which the red blood cells are shaped abnormally. As an antimetabolite medication, hydroxyurea works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells in the body to treat cancer. It also helps prevent the formation of sickle-shaped red blood cells to treat sickle cell anemia.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication, either with or without food, typically once a day. The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, lab results, and response to treatment.
If your blood counts are too low, your treatment may be temporarily halted. Ensure that you attend all scheduled medical and lab appointments.
Do not exceed your prescribed dosage, nor should you take this medication more frequently or for a longer period than directed. Doing so will not improve your condition more quickly and may increase your chances of experiencing severe side effects.
If taking capsules, swallow them whole without crushing or chewing. If using tablets, swallow your dose with water. Only split a tablet if there is a score line, and your doctor has instructed you to do so. If you experience difficulties swallowing, dissolve the entire or split tablet in a small quantity of water in a teaspoon and swallow it right away.
Before and after handling the medication or its container, wash your hands thoroughly. If handling this medication or its container, you and/or your caregiver should wear disposable gloves. If any powder from the tablet or capsule spills, wipe it up immediately with a damp paper towel and dispose of it in a sealed container like a plastic bag. Clean the affected area immediately with soap and water, being careful not to inhale the powder from the tablets/capsules.
Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs, pregnant women or those who may become pregnant should avoid handling this medication or inhaling the dust from the tablets/capsules.
If your condition does not improve or worsens, inform your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- weight gain
- sores in the mouth and throat
- constipation
- rash
- pale skin
- dizziness
- headache
- hair loss
- changes in skin and nails
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- fast heartbeat
- ongoing pain that begins in the stomach area but may spread to the back
- leg wounds or ulcers
- pain, itching, redness, swelling, or blisters on the skin
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- blood in the urine
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- numbness, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet
- fever, cough, shortness of breath, and other breathing problems
Caution
Before taking hydroxyurea, make sure to inform your pharmacist or doctor if you have any allergies, or if you’re allergic to this medication. Hydroxyurea may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have any kidney or liver disease, blood or bone marrow disorders, HIV infection, high uric acid levels in your blood, or have undergone radiation treatment.
Hydroxyurea can increase the likelihood of infections or exacerbate current infections. Avoid contact with people who have infections that can spread to others, such as measles, chickenpox, or the flu. Consult with your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or require further guidance.
Before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations, inform your healthcare provider that you’re taking hydroxyurea. Avoid contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines, such as the flu vaccine inhaled through the nose.
Be cautious when using sharp objects such as razors or nail cutters to minimize the risk of injury or bruising. Avoid contact sports.
It’s unclear whether hydroxyurea affects sperm. If you intend to father a child, talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of this medication.
If you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor. Hydroxyurea can harm an unborn baby, so you should avoid becoming pregnant while using this medication. Men with female partners of childbearing age should inquire about reliable forms of birth control while using hydroxyurea and for one year after stopping treatment. Women of childbearing age should also ask about reliable forms of birth control while using this medication and for six months after stopping treatment. If you or your partner become pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, notify your doctor immediately.
Hydroxyurea can pass into breast milk and potentially harm a nursing infant. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Hydrea is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Hydrea capsule:
- 500mg
-
hydroxyurea capsule:
- 500mg
FAQ
How quickly does Hydrea work?
You will not feel better right away, because it takes a few months for Hydrea to start working.
Does Hydrea make you tired?
Hydrea oral capsule can cause dizziness and drowsiness during the first few hours after you take it.
Resources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/hydroxyurea-oral-capsule#:~:text=Hydroxyurea%20oral%20capsule%20can%20cause,your%20doctor%20increases%20your%20dosage
- https://www.nemours.org/content/dam/nemours/wwwv2/filebox/service/medical/sicklecell/hydroxyurea.pdf
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/hydroxyurea-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20068109
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-12361/hydrea-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682004.html#:~:text=Hydroxyurea%20(Hydrea)%20is%20used%20alone,%2C%20tonsils%2C%20and%20sinuses).
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/hydrea.html
