About hydroxycarbamide
Antimetabolite chemotherapy medicine
Used for
- Treats certain blood cancers, including chronic myeloid leukaemia.
- Reduces high blood cell counts in some blood disorders.
- Helps prevent painful crises in sickle cell disease.
Usual adult dose
Varies by condition, body weight, and blood counts; prescribed and adjusted by a specialist.
Usual dose in children
For sickle cell disease, usually starts at 15 mg/kg once daily; specialist adjusts using blood counts.
Common side effects
- Low blood cell counts, increasing infection or bleeding risk.
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite.
- Mouth sores, skin changes, or hair loss.
- Fever or fatigue.
Important warnings
- Requires regular blood tests and specialist monitoring.
- Can cause severe bone marrow suppression; doses may need holding or adjustment.
- May harm an unborn baby; effective contraception is important during treatment.
- Capsules are hazardous if opened; avoid contact with powder and wash hands after handling.
Pregnancy
May cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy unless a specialist determines treatment is essential.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment because the medicine may pass into breast milk.
Interactions
- Antiretroviral medicines, especially didanosine or stavudine, may increase serious toxicity.
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow may increase low blood counts.
- Live vaccines may cause infection; vaccination plans require specialist review.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.