Hydroxyurea
Brand Names
Droxia, Hydrea, MylocelWhat is Hydroxyurea
Hydroxyurea is a medicine that is prescribed for treating chronic myelocytic leukemia, ovarian cancer and certain types of skin cancer (melanoma and primary squamous cell cancer of the head and neck). It is also used to reduce pain episodes and the need for blood transfusions in people with sickle cell anemia. Hydroxyurea refers to a class of medications known as antineoplastic agents and affects certain cells in the body, such as cancer cells or sickled red blood cells.
Side effects of Hydroxyurea
Side effects of Hydroxyurea are the followings:
- hair loss;
- skin peeling or discoloration, mild rash;
- upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting;
- headache, dizziness, drowsiness;
- weight gain.
But if you have any of these serious symptoms it is strongly recommended to visit your doctor immediately:
- rash;
- purple, blue or black discoloration of the skin or nails;
- loss of feeling in one area of the body;
- sores on the skin or in the mouth;
- foul-smelling substance oozing from the skin;
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles or lower legs.
Indication
Hydroxyurea is prescribed for treating chronic myelocytic leukemia, ovarian cancer and certain types of skin cancer (melanoma and primary squamous cell cancer of the head and neck). It is also used to reduce pain episodes and the need for blood transfusions in people with sickle cell anemia.
Precautions
Before using Hydroxyurea you should inform your doctor if you have:
- bone marrow suppression;
- HIV or AIDS;
- liver disease;
- kidney disease;
- if you are receiving chemotherapy or radiation.
You should not use this medication if you have:
- severe bone marrow suppression;
- severe anemia;
- low levels of platelets in your blood.
Dosage forms
Dosage depends on your weight, medical condition, laboratory test results and response to treatment. You should use Hydroxyurea exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
