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Hydrea (Hydroxyurea) Shopper Approved

Prescription Prescription Required FormationFormulation: Capsule

Hydrea

(Brand Option)

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Prescription Prescription Required FormationFormulation: Capsule

Hydroxyurea

(Generic Alternative)

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Hydrea (active ingredient: hydroxyurea) is a prescription medication used to treat certain blood disorders and cancers. It works by slowing the growth of abnormal blood cells and helping reduce complications associated with these conditions.

Hydrea is approved for the treatment of the following conditions:

Myeloproliferative Disorders

Hydrea is used to treat several myeloproliferative disorders, including:

  • Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
  • Polycythemia vera (PV).
  • Essential thrombocythemia (ET).

These conditions cause the bone marrow to produce too many abnormal blood cells, which can increase the risk of blood clots, bleeding, enlarged organs, and other serious complications.

Depending on the condition being treated, Hydrea may help:

  • Slow the production of abnormal blood cells.
  • Reduce high red blood cell or platelet counts.
  • Lower the risk of blood clots.
  • Improve symptoms related to the disease.
  • Help control disease progression.

Sickle Cell Disease

Hydrea is also used to treat sickle cell disease in adults and children.

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder in which red blood cells become hard, sticky, and crescent (sickle) shaped. These abnormal cells can block blood flow, causing severe pain, organ damage, and other complications.

Hydrea helps reduce the frequency of:

  • Painful sickle cell crises.
  • Episodes of acute chest syndrome.
  • Hospitalizations.
  • The need for blood transfusions in many patients with recurrent moderate to severe painful crises.

How Does Hydrea Work?

Hydrea belongs to a group of medications called antimetabolites.

It works by interfering with the production of DNA, which slows the growth and division of rapidly multiplying cells.

In people with myeloproliferative disorders, Hydrea helps slow the production of abnormal blood cells in the bone marrow, helping bring blood cell counts closer to normal.

In people with sickle cell disease, Hydrea increases the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), a type of hemoglobin that helps prevent red blood cells from becoming sickle-shaped. This improves blood flow and reduces the likelihood of painful blockages in blood vessels.

By these actions, Hydrea may help:

  • Lower abnormal blood cell counts.
  • Reduce the risk of blood clots.
  • Decrease painful sickle cell crises.
  • Reduce the need for blood transfusions.
  • Improve overall quality of life for many people living with these conditions.

Hydrea does not cure sickle cell disease or myeloproliferative disorders, but it can help manage symptoms, reduce complications, and improve long-term outcomes when taken consistently as prescribed. Regular blood tests are an important part of treatment to monitor your response and help ensure the medication remains safe and effective.

Hydrea is available as an oral capsule that should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

The capsules are usually taken once daily with a full glass of water. For certain conditions, such as some types of cancer, your healthcare provider may recommend a different dosing schedule, including taking the medication once every third day.

Take Hydrea at the same time each day to help maintain a consistent level of medication in your body and to help you remember your dose.

Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules, as this may affect how the medication works and increase your exposure to the drug. Because hydroxyurea can be harmful if it comes into contact with the skin, wash your hands before and after handling the capsules, and avoid touching any powder if a capsule becomes damaged.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Do not take more or less than the prescribed dose, and do not change your dosing schedule without consulting your healthcare provider.

Recommended Dosage

The dose of Hydrea varies depending on the condition being treated, your blood counts, and how you respond to treatment.

For many people with sickle cell disease, the usual starting dose is:

  • 15 mg by mouth once daily.

Your healthcare provider may gradually increase your dose, typically every 12 weeks, if needed and if your blood counts remain within a safe range.

Because Hydrea can affect the bone marrow, you will need regular blood tests during treatment. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose based on your blood cell counts and your response to the medication.

Many healthcare providers also recommend taking folic acid while using Hydrea. Folic acid helps support healthy red blood cell production and may reduce the risk of certain side effects. Take folic acid only as directed by your healthcare provider.

Important Tips

  • Take Hydrea exactly as prescribed.
  • Take it at the same time every day.
  • Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water.
  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time.
  • Keep all scheduled appointments for blood tests and follow-up visits, as your healthcare provider will monitor your blood counts regularly and adjust your dose if needed.

Common Side Effects of Hydrea (Hydroxyurea):

  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Hair loss
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Mouth sores
  • Nausea
  • Skin discoloration
  • Stomach upset
  • Vomiting
  • Weight changes

Serious Side Effects of Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)

  • Blackened skin
  • Bloody urine
  • Changes in urine output
  • Chest pain
  • Mental or mood disorders (hallucinations, confusion)
  • Seizures
  • Shortness of breath
  • Skin ulcer
  • Yellowish eyes and skin

Hydrea (Hydroxyurea) is available in the following forms and strengths:

Hydrea: Capsule

  • 500 mg

Hydroxyurea: Capsule

  • 500 mg

Before taking Hydrea, tell your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any medical conditions, allergies, and all medications you are taking. Regular monitoring is essential to help ensure the medication is safe and effective.

Bone Marrow Suppression

Hydrea can reduce the production of blood cells in the bone marrow, which may lead to:

  • Low white blood cell counts, increasing the risk of infection.
  • Low red blood cell counts (anemia).
  • Low platelet counts, increasing the risk of bleeding or bruising.

Hydrea should not be started if your bone marrow function is severely depressed.

Your healthcare provider will order regular blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts throughout treatment. If your blood counts become too low, your treatment may be temporarily stopped or your dose may be reduced until your blood counts recover.

Increased Risk of Skin Cancer and Other Cancers

Hydrea may increase the risk of developing secondary cancers, including skin cancer, particularly with long-term use.

To help reduce your risk:

  • Limit your exposure to direct sunlight.
  • Wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses when outdoors.
  • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate SPF.
  • Check your skin regularly for new or changing moles, sores, or unusual skin changes.

Tell your healthcare provider if you notice any new skin growths or changes in your skin.

Pregnancy and Birth Control

Hydrea can harm an unborn baby and should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically recommended by your healthcare provider.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, tell your healthcare provider before starting Hydrea.

Both men and women taking Hydrea should use effective contraception during treatment and for the period recommended by their healthcare provider after stopping the medication. Talk with your healthcare provider about the most appropriate birth control method for you.

Increased Risk of Infection

Because Hydrea can lower your white blood cell count, it may make it harder for your body to fight infections.

While taking Hydrea:

  • Avoid close contact with people who have contagious illnesses, such as chickenpox, measles, or influenza (flu).
  • Wash your hands frequently and practice good hygiene.
  • Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you develop signs of an infection, including:
    • Fever or chills.
    • Sore throat.
    • Persistent cough.
    • Body aches.
    • Any other symptoms of illness.

If you have been exposed to a contagious infection, contact your healthcare provider for advice as soon as possible.

Regular Monitoring

Keep all scheduled appointments for blood tests and follow-up visits. Your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your:

  • Blood cell counts.
  • Response to treatment.
  • Overall health.

These routine tests help determine whether your dose needs to be adjusted and allow your healthcare provider to detect potential side effects early.

Is Hydrea safe to use during pregnancy?

No. Hydrea can harm an unborn baby and is generally not recommended during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, tell your healthcare provider before starting Hydrea. Both men and women should use effective birth control during treatment and for the period recommended by their healthcare provider after stopping the medication.

How long does Hydrea take to work?

Hydrea begins working soon after you start taking it, but the time it takes to notice improvement depends on the condition being treated. Some people may see changes in blood counts within a few days to a few weeks, while the full benefits—particularly for conditions such as sickle cell disease—may take several months. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress with regular blood tests and adjust your dose if needed.

How should I take Hydrea?

Take Hydrea exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken once daily with a full glass of water. Some people may take it with food if stomach upset occurs. Swallow the capsules whole—do not crush, chew, or open them. Try to take your medication at the same time each day and do not change your dose or stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Hydrea?

It is generally best to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Hydrea. Alcohol may increase the risk of certain side effects or place additional stress on your liver and bone marrow. If you drink alcohol, talk to your healthcare provider about whether it is safe for you while receiving treatment with Hydrea.

REVIEWS

Additional Information Book
Generic name:

Hydroxyurea

Formulation:

Capsule

Strength(s):

500mg

Quantities Available:

100

Why customers love Online Pharmacies Canada

Our online Canadian Pharmacy is known for high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency when it comes to medications.

Our pharmacy offers lower prices on prescription drugs compared to traditional pharmacies.

How to Order

How much Hydrea can I order at once from a Canadian pharmacy?

When ordering Hydrea (hydroxyurea) from a Canadian pharmacy, you can typically purchase up to a 90-day supply at one time, which is common for prescription medications to ensure adequate management of chronic conditions without frequent refills.

Here’s what you need to know:

Dosage and Quantity: The dosage of Hydrea can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. Typically, it is prescribed in dosages ranging from 500 mg to 1500 mg daily. For example, if you are prescribed to take 1000 mg daily, for a 90-day supply, you would order approximately 180 tablets (90 days x 2 tablets per day).

Do you sell hydroxyurea?

Yes, we sell hydroxyurea! You can enjoy low prices on your medication by ordering from our website. To place an order, you will need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider, which we require to dispense the medication safely and accurately. You can submit your prescription by mail, fax, or by uploading it through your online account.

Do you offer shipping of Hydrea (hydroxyurea) to the United States?

Yes, we ship Hydrea (hydroxyurea) to both the United States and Puerto Rico.

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Online Pharmacies Canada has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Hydrea (Hydroxyurea). Talk to your doctor or other qualified medical practitioners for medical attention or advice, or if you have any concerns about Hydrea (Hydroxyurea).