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Hydroxyurea - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Hydroxyurea

Generic Name : Hydroxyurea
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Hydroxyurea are provided here.

Pronunciation : hye drox ee yoor ee' a

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Hydroxyurea, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y43.1 Therapeutic Classification : Antimetabolites

Trade Names/Brand Names of Hydroxyurea

India :

International :


Droxia, Hydrea

Why is Hydroxyurea Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antineoplastic agent, prescribed for sickle cell anemia, several types of cancer (such as melanoma, chronic myelogenous leukemia, squamous cell carcinomas), as an adjunct to antiretroviral therapy for AIDS. It is also used for psoriasis.

When should Hydroxyurea not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with severe bone marrow depression, abnormal decrease in blood cell counts and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Hydroxyurea?

Intermittent Therapy
80 mg/kg administered orally as a single dose every third day.
Continuous Therapy
20 to 30 mg/kg administered orally as a single dose daily.
Concomitant Therapy with Irradiation
Carcinoma of the head and neck—80 mg/kg administered orally as a single dose every third day.

How should Hydroxyurea be taken?

It comes as a capsule and tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Hydroxyurea?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of AIDS, who have undergone radiation therapy, liver or kidney disease, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may reduce platelet counts; avoid injury or bruising.

• It may be harmful if it gets on the skin; avoid direct contact with hands.

• Avoid vaccination while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Hydroxyurea?

Most common - Bone marrow depression.
Gastrointestinal - Mouth ulcer, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation.
Skin - Rash, skin ulceration, skin changes and redness.

What are the other precautions for Hydroxyurea?

Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages and citrus juices.
Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Hydroxyurea?

Keep it out of reach of children in a safe place.

Schedule : G
Drugs that are to be used only under medical supervision.
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