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Hydroxyurea

Information about Hydroxyurea

Hydroxyurea Uses

Hydroxyurea is used in the treatment of head and neck cancer, sickle cell anemia, prostate cancer, blood cancer (acute lymphocytic leukemia), soft tissue sarcoma and Hodgkin’s disease.

How Hydroxyurea works

In cancer, Hydroxyurea works by blocking an enzyme (ribonucleotide reductase) which is required for synthesis of DNA. This prevents the cancer cells from growing and multiplying. In sickle cell disease, it works by increasing fetal haemoglobin (HbF) levels in red blood cells (RBCs). This helps the RBCs assume a normal shape, improves blood flow and protects against complications such as painful sickle cell episodes.

Common side effects of Hydroxyurea

Skin cancer, Azoospermia (absence of sperms), Decreased appetite, Fever, Oligospermia (low sperm count), Bone marrow suppression, Hallucination, Convulsion, Peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness of feet and hand), Pulmonary fibrosis, Pulmonary edema, Pancreatic inflammation, Liver toxicity, Cutaneous vasculitis, Increased uric acid level in blood

CONTENT DETAILS

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Lalit Kanodia

MBA, MD Pharmacology

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Written By

Dr. Lipika Khurana

PGDHHM, BDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Rajeev Sharma

MBA, MBBS

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Varun Gupta

MD Pharmacology, MBBS

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Varun Gupta

MD Pharmacology, MBBS

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Written By

Dr. Radhika Dua

MDS, BDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Shilpa Garcha

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Varun Gupta

MD Pharmacology, MBBS

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Lalit Kanodia

MBA, MD Pharmacology

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Last updated

28 Mar 2025 | 06:04 AM (UTC)

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Expert advice for Hydroxyurea

Take it at the same time every day, either with or without food.
It is advisable to stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids while taking Hydroxyurea.
Do not skip any dose and complete the course as suggested by your doctor.
Use an effective method of birth control to avoid pregnancy while taking this medication.
Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your electrolyte levels, liver function, blood cell count in your blood.

Frequently asked questions for Hydroxyurea

Hydroxyurea

Q. How to get relief from diarrhea while on treatment with Hydroxyurea?

Food items with soluble fiber can help relieve diarrhea as they help absorb excess fluid from the body. These food items include bananas (ripe), oranges, boiled potatoes, white rice, curd, and oatmeal. Diarrhea can cause dehydration in the body, so drink 8-10 glasses of water to avoid dehydration. You can also have soups and juice frequently to hydrate yourself.

Q. Should I avoid any food and drinks while taking Hydroxyurea?

You can continue with your normal diet unless your doctor tells you otherwise. However, it is advisable to sip water regularly to prevent you from becoming dehydrated, eat small, simple but nourishing snacks every few hours rather than large meals, and suck on hard candy or popsicles to prevent nausea and vomiting.

Q. How to cope with tiredness and weakness after starting treatment?

Various things can help you to reduce tiredness and cope with it, for example, gentle exercise. Always consult your doctor before doing any kind of exercise.

Q. Can Hydroxyurea be taken during pregnancy?

This treatment may harm a baby developing in the womb. It is important not to become pregnant or father a child while you are having treatment and for at least 6 months afterward. Talk to your doctor about effective contraception before starting the treatment.

Q. Does Hydroxyurea cause hair loss?

Yes, while taking this medicine, your hair may become brittle and break. You may also experience patchy hair loss or thinning. These conditions tend to resolve once treatment is stopped. Be gentle when brushing and washing hair to manage hair loss.

Q. I have noticed some changes in my skin after taking Hydroxyurea? What should I do?

Use a moisturizer to get relief from rashes, and dry and itchy skin. Avoid direct sunlight, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen (SPF of more than 15) whenever you step outdoors. Do not go swimming if you have a rash because the chlorine in the water can make it worse. Avoid hot water baths and wear loose and cotton fabric clothes. Your skin will tend to become better once treatment is stopped.

Q. How to relieve constipation during the treatment?

To relieve constipation, include fiber in your diet (fruits and vegetables), drink 8-10 glasses of fluids a day, and keep active. A stool softener (with a doctor's prescription) once or twice a day may prevent constipation. If you do not have a bowel movement for 2-3 days, consult your doctor.

Q. What precautions should I take to reduce the chances of getting infected during treatment with Hydroxyurea?

Since Hydroxyurea lowers the number of white blood cells and platelets in your blood, it puts you at a risk of getting an infection. In order to prevent, avoid people who have infections. Check with your doctor immediately if you think you may be getting an infection, or if you get a fever, or chills.