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Hydroxyurea

Information about Hydroxyurea

Hydroxyurea Uses

Hydroxyurea is used in the treatment of head and neck cancer, blood cancer (chronic myeloid leukaemia) and sickle cell disease.

How Hydroxyurea works

In cancer, hydroxyurea inhibits the enzyme ribonucleotide reductase, which plays a critical role in the synthesis of DNA by converting ribonucleotides into deoxyribonucleotides. This inhibition disrupts DNA synthesis, particularly in rapidly dividing cancer cells, resulting in cell cycle arrest and reduced tumor proliferation. In sickle cell disease, hydroxyurea increases the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in red blood cells. Higher levels of HbF reduce the formation of sickled cells, improve red blood cell flexibility, enhance blood flow, and decrease the frequency of painful vaso-occlusive episodes and related complications.

Common side effects of Hydroxyurea

Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Fatigue, Constipation, Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth), Decreased appetite, Cholestasis, Hepatitis (viral infection of liver), Hair loss, Bone marrow depression, Low blood platelets, Skin rash, Mucositis

CONTENT DETAILS

Written By

Dr. Anuj Saini

MMST, MBBS

Reviewed By

Dr. Lalit Kanodia

MBA, MD Pharmacology

Last updated

23 May 2025 | 07:44 PM (UTC)

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Expert advice for Hydroxyurea

Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not change the dose or stop taking Hydroxyurea without your doctor’s advice, even if you feel better.
Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated while on treatment with Hydroxyurea. This helps support kidney function and may reduce side effects.
Routine monitoring is important to check your blood counts and ensure the medicine is working safely. Make sure to attend regular blood test appointments.
Do not receive live vaccines while taking Hydroxyurea, as your immune system may be weakened. Always check with your doctor before vaccination.
Hydroxyurea can harm an unborn baby. Both men and women should use reliable birth control during treatment and for a period after stopping the medicine (6 months for women, 1 year for men).

Frequently asked questions for Hydroxyurea

Hydroxyurea

Q. What is Hydroxyurea used for?

Hydroxyurea is used to treat certain cancers like chronic myeloid leukemia and head and neck cancers, as well as to prevent complications in people with sickle cell disease.

Q. How does Hydroxyurea help in sickle cell disease?

It increases the level of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which helps red blood cells stay in a normal shape, improving blood flow and reducing painful sickle cell crises.

Q. What side effects should I watch out for?

Common side effects include low blood counts, nausea, mouth sores, and skin or nail changes. Serious signs to report include fever, infections, unusual bleeding, or shortness of breath.

Q. Can I take Hydroxyurea during pregnancy or while trying to conceive?

No. Hydroxyurea can harm an unborn baby and affect fertility. Use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after (women) or 1 year after (men) stopping the medicine.

Q. Do I need regular blood tests while on Hydroxyurea?

Yes. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor your blood cell counts and ensure the medicine is safe and effective for you.

Q. How to get relief from diarrhea while on treatment with Hydroxyurea?

Food items with soluble fiber can help relieve diarrhea as they help absorb excess fluid from the body. These food items include bananas (ripe), oranges, boiled potatoes, white rice, curd, and oatmeal. Diarrhea can cause dehydration in the body, so drink 8-10 glasses of water to avoid dehydration.

Q. Does Hydroxyurea cause hair loss?

Yes, while taking this medicine, your hair may become brittle and break. You may also experience patchy hair loss or thinning. These conditions tend to resolve once treatment is stopped. Be gentle when brushing and washing hair to manage hair loss.

Q. I have noticed some changes in my skin after taking Hydroxyurea? What should I do?

Use a moisturizer to get relief from rashes and dry and itchy skin. Avoid direct sunlight, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen (SPF of more than 15) whenever you step outdoors. Do not go swimming if you have a rash because the chlorine in the water can make it worse. Avoid hot water baths and wear loose cotton fabric clothes. Your skin will tend to improve once treatment is stopped.

Q. How to relieve constipation during the treatment?

To relieve constipation, include fiber in your diet (fruits and vegetables), drink 8-10 glasses of fluids a day, and keep active. A stool softener (with a doctor's prescription) once or twice a day may prevent constipation. If you do not have a bowel movement for 2-3 days, consult your doctor.

Q. What precautions should I take to reduce the chances of getting infected during treatment with Hydroxyurea?

Since Hydroxyurea lowers the number of white blood cells and platelets in your blood, it puts you at risk of getting an infection. To prevent infections, avoid people who have infections. Check with your doctor immediately if you think you may be getting an infection, or if you get a fever or chills.