Indications
Hydrea (active ingredient: hydroxyurea) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Myeloproliferative Disorders: Hydrea is used for the treatment of myeloproliferative disorders, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), polycythemia vera (PV), and essential thrombocythemia (ET).
- Sickle Cell Anemia: It is also indicated for the treatment of sickle cell anemia to reduce the frequency of painful crises and to decrease the need for blood transfusions in patients with recurrent moderate to severe painful crises.
Hydrea belongs to a class of drugs known as antimetabolites, which work by inhibiting the synthesis of DNA and interfering with the growth and replication of rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells and abnormal blood cells in myeloproliferative disorders.
Uses and Dosage
Hydroxyurea comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day, with a glass of water. When hydroxyurea is used to treat certain types of cancer, it may be taken once every third day. Swallow hydroxyurea capsules whole; do not split, chew, or crush them. Doing so could affect how the medication is absorbed and may lead to decreased effectiveness. Make sure to take hydroxyurea at around the same time each day and follow the directions on your prescription label carefully. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
The recommended dosage of hydroxyurea is 15 mg per kg of body weight taken once daily. For example, a person weighing 67 kg (about 147 pounds) would take 1,000 mg of hydroxyurea once a day. The dose can be increased by 5 mg/kg/day every 12 weeks, as long as the patient's blood count remains stable. Prophylactic administration of folic acid is recommended to reduce the risk of certain side effects.
Side Effect
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
Form and Strength
Hydrea (Hydroxyurea) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Hydrea: Capsule
- 500 mg
Hydroxyurea: Capsule
- 500 mg
Caution
- When using Hydrea (hydroxyurea), do not give it if bone marrow function is markedly depressed. It is also important to monitor hematology labs and interrupt, and reduce dose as appropriate.
- When using Hydrea (hydroxyurea), it is important to advise protection from sun exposure and to monitor for secondary malignancies. This is because Hydroxyurea is carcinogenic, and skin cancer has been reported in patients receiving long-term therapy. Talk to your doctor about the risks associated with taking hydroxyurea.
- Hydroxyurea (also known as Hydrea) can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Discuss the potential risk to a fetus and use effective contraception when taking this medication.
- Minimize the risk of infection when taking hydroxyurea by avoiding contact with people who have infections that may spread to others (such as chickenpox, measles, and flu). If you have been exposed to an infection, it is important to consult your doctor for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is hydroxyurea safe to take during pregnancy?
Hydroxyurea is classified as a Pregnancy Category D drug, meaning it may cause harm to a developing fetus. Women should not take hydroxyurea during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
How long does it take for hydroxyurea to work?
Hydroxyurea usually starts to work within a few days to a few weeks. However, it may take several months for the full effects of the medication to be seen.
How do I take hydroxyurea?
Hydroxyurea is usually taken once a day with food. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and take the medication exactly as prescribed.
Can I drink alcohol while taking hydroxyurea?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking hydroxyurea.
How long does it take for hydroxyurea to work?
The effects of hydroxyurea may take several weeks to become noticeable. Your doctor can monitor your progress and adjust the dosage if needed.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/hydrea-drug.htm
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682004.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/hydroxyurea-oral-route/description/drg-20068109
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/016295Orig1s047,s048Lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-12361/hydrea-oral/details
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