Hydroxyurea

Dosage Forms Available

• Hydroxyurea is available for use orally in the form of capsules, tablets, or oral solutions.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Hydroxyurea is primarily meant for adults, and children aged 2 and older.

Contraindications

• Hydroxyurea is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or any of its components.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with severe bone marrow depression or those with low platelet counts.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Hydroxyurea may interact with antiretroviral agents (such as didanosine and stavudine) and other myelosuppressive medicines (such as melphalan).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Hydroxyurea can potentially lead to severe health complications, such as severe bone marrow suppression. Immediate medical attention is required in such cases.

• If you miss a dose of Hydroxyurea, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally resolve when the medication is discontinued. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For side effects like nausea or vomiting, try taking the medicine with food.

• If you experience constipation, drinking plenty of water and increasing dietary fibre can help.

• Skin darkening can be managed by limiting sun exposure and using sunscreen when outdoors.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Hydroxyurea may cause dizziness or fatigue. It's advisable to refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these side effects.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Hydroxyurea is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to the foetus and infant. Consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution should be exercised when using Hydroxyurea in patients with kidney impairment, liver disease, or HIV infection, as it can potentially affect the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of adverse reactions.

• Patients with a history of bone marrow suppression should also exercise caution while using this medicine.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

• Avoid exposure to infections, as Hydroxyurea may lower your immune response.

• Practise safe sex and use effective contraception, as Hydroxyurea can harm an unborn baby.