About hydroxcarbamide
Antimetabolite; ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor
Used for
- Certain chronic myeloid leukaemia cases
- Reducing painful crises and complications in sickle cell disease
- Some head and neck cancers, with radiotherapy
Usual adult dose
Dose is individualised by condition, blood counts, kidney function, and response; specialist-directed dosing is essential.
Usual dose in children
For sickle cell disease, usually starts at 15 mg/kg once daily; specialists adjust using blood counts.
Common side effects
- Low blood-cell counts
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Mouth sores or skin changes
- Skin and nail darkening
Important warnings
- Can cause severe bone-marrow suppression; regular blood tests are required.
- May increase infection and bleeding risk; report fever or unusual bruising promptly.
- Can harm an unborn baby; effective contraception is needed during treatment.
- Long-term use may increase skin cancer risk; protect skin from sunlight.
Pregnancy
May cause fetal harm. Avoid pregnancy during treatment; both women and men should discuss contraception with their specialist.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment because the medicine may pass into breast milk and harm the infant.
Interactions
- Live vaccines may cause serious infection; avoid unless a specialist approves.
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow can increase blood-count problems.
- Antiretroviral medicines used for HIV may increase toxicity, including pancreatitis or liver injury.
- Radiotherapy or chemotherapy may increase low blood counts and other toxic effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.