About hydroxycarbamide
Antimetabolite; ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor
Used for
- Sickle cell disease to reduce painful crises and transfusions
- Certain blood cancers, including chronic myeloid leukemia and polycythemia vera
Usual adult dose
Sickle cell disease: usually 15 mg/kg once daily, adjusted by blood counts. Cancer doses vary by condition and specialist plan.
Usual dose in children
Sickle cell disease: usually 15 mg/kg once daily, adjusted by blood counts; specialist supervision is required.
Common side effects
- Low blood-cell counts, increasing infection or bleeding risk
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
- Mouth sores or skin and nail changes
- Skin ulcers or darkening with prolonged use
Important warnings
- Requires regular blood-count monitoring; treatment may need interruption for low counts.
- Can harm an unborn baby; effective contraception is important during treatment.
- Long-term use may increase skin-cancer risk; protect skin and attend checks.
- Do not handle spilled solution with bare hands; avoid contact with skin or eyes.
Pregnancy
May cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy unless a specialist judges it essential; use effective contraception.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment because the medicine may pass into breast milk.
Interactions
- Antiretroviral medicines, especially didanosine or stavudine, can increase serious toxicity.
- Live vaccines may cause infection; vaccination plans require specialist review.
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow can increase low blood-cell counts.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.