HYDROXYUREA

Overview:

Hydroxyurea is the drug used to control some of the blood diseases since it reduces the rate of production of the abnormal or excessive cells in the blood. It is commonly applied to the treatment of such conditions as sickle cell disease, specific leukemia or other blood cancer. It can alleviate symptoms and complications with time by assisting you to achieve a normalized level in your blood cell count.

Classification:Antimetabolite

Uses:
Hydroxyurea is also a medicine employed to treat some blood diseases like the sickle cell and cancer such as leukemia. It aids in the reduction of the pain incidents and hospital visits in the case of sickle cell patients. It is associated with reducing the number of defective cells that are produced in your body during blood cancers.

How it works:
It works by reducing the speed at which some blood cells grow, especially those that are abnormal or growing out of control.In sickle cell disease, it helps your body make more of a healthy type of hemoglobin, which keeps red blood cells round and flexible instead of sickle-shaped. This helps reduce pain crises and improves blood flow. In cancer, it helps stop the overproduction of abnormal cells.
Dosage: As prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects:
Tiredness or weakness
Nausea or upset stomach
Loss of appetite
Skin or nail changes (like darkening)
Hair thinning
Precautions:
Tell your doctor whether you ever had kidney or liver issues, or your immune system is weak before beginning Hydroxyurea treatment. You also should say whether you have any infection or you are using other medications, particularly those that interfere with your blood or immune system.Since Hydroxyurea may lower the number of the blood cells in your body, you will be required to undergo regular blood tests to ensure everything is in balance. And, too, do not get pregnant or sire a child when on this medicine, this medication can be deleterious to the infant, so good contraception is highly recommended.And, as well, when breast feeding you will have to cease, since the medication finds its way into breast milk.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage.