About hydroxyurea
Antimetabolite; ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor
Used for
- Sickle cell disease to reduce painful crises and transfusions
- Certain chronic myeloid leukemia and head and neck cancers, often with other treatments
Usual adult dose
Sickle cell disease: typically 15 mg/kg once daily, adjusted by blood counts. Cancer dosing varies by regimen.
Usual dose in children
Sickle cell disease: typically 15 mg/kg once daily, adjusted by blood counts, under specialist supervision.
Common side effects
- Low blood cell counts and increased infection or bleeding risk
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
- Mouth sores, skin or nail changes
- Rare lung inflammation or leg ulcers
Important warnings
- Requires regular blood-count monitoring; treatment may need interruption for low counts.
- Can cause severe harm to an unborn baby; effective contraception is needed during treatment.
- Long-term use may increase risk of skin cancer and secondary blood cancers.
- Capsules are hazardous; avoid opening or crushing, and prevent skin contact with contents.
Pregnancy
Can cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy unless a specialist determines benefits outweigh risks.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment because the medicine may harm the infant.
Interactions
- Antiretroviral medicines, especially didanosine or stavudine, may increase serious toxicity.
- Live vaccines may cause infection; avoid during treatment.
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow can increase low blood 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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.