Hydrea

Hydrea is commonly used to treat conditions such as:

1. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML): It is used to manage CML, a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.
2. Polycythemia vera (PV): Hydrea can be prescribed to manage PV, a disorder characterized by the overproduction of red blood cells.
3. Essential thrombocythemia (ET): It may be used to treat ET, a condition in which the bone marrow produces too many platelets.

How to use

Here are some general guidelines for using Hydrea:

1. Administration: Medicine is available in the form of capsules, which are taken orally. Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water.
2. Timing: Hydrea is usually taken once a day. Take it at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body.
3. Food and Fluids: You may take Hydrea with or without food. It is important to stay well-hydrated while taking this medication, so drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
4. Compliance: Do not skip doses or double up on doses to make up for missed ones.
5. Precautions: Inform your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Hydrea.
6. Safety measures: Hydroxyurea can lower your body's ability to fight infections. Take precautions to avoid contact with individuals who have contagious illnesses or infections. Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing, to minimize the risk of infection.
7. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of Hydrea during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be carefully.

Dosage

The following dosage information is a general guideline, but your actual prescribed dosage may differ:

Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML):

• Adults: The typical starting dose is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight taken orally once daily.

Polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET):

• Adults: The usual starting dose is 15 mg per kilogram of body weight taken orally once daily.

Side effects

Here are some common side effects associated with Hydrea:

1. Nausea and vomiting: You may experience feelings of nausea or vomiting while taking Hydrea. Taking the medication with food or adjusting the timing of your doses may help alleviate these symptoms.
2. Loss of appetite: Drug can sometimes lead to a decreased appetite. It is important to maintain proper nutrition during treatment.
3. Diarrhea or constipation: Some individuals may experience changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation. Staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet with adequate fiber may help manage these symptoms.
4. Skin reactions: Hydroxyurea can cause skin reactions such as rash, dryness, or changes in skin color. These effects are usually mild.
5. Hair loss: In some cases, Hydrea may cause temporary hair loss or thinning. Hair regrowth typically occurs after treatment discontinuation.
6. Mouth sores: Medicine can occasionally cause mouth sores or ulcers.
7. Fatigue: Feelings of tiredness or fatigue can occur while taking Hydrea. It is important to balance rest and activity.
8. Hematological effects: Hydrea affects blood cell production, and in some cases, it can cause a decrease in red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Regular blood tests will be conducted to monitor your blood cell counts during treatment.
9. Other side effects: Additional side effects may include dizziness, headache, fever, muscle pain, or swelling in the hands or feet.

Storage

Hydrea should be stored in accordance with the following guidelines:

1. Keep tablets in the original container: Store the medication in its original bottle or blister pack provided by the pharmacy. This helps to protect the tablets from moisture, light, and other external factors.
2. Store at room temperature: Medicine should be stored at a temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Avoid storing it in extreme temperatures or in areas with excessive heat or cold.
3. Keep away from moisture: Hydrea should be kept in a dry place. Avoid storing it in areas such as the bathroom or kitchen, where humidity and moisture levels are high.
4. Protect from light: Exposure to direct sunlight or strong artificial light may degrade the medication. Therefore, it is recommended to keep capsules in a dark and cool place.
5. Keep out of reach of children and pets: Ensure that Hydrea is stored in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets. Accidental ingestion can be harmful.
6. Do not use expired medication: Check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use Hydrea if it has expired. Properly dispose of any expired or unused medication according to local guidelines.

Overdose

An overdose of Hydroxyurea can be serious and requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect an overdose or have taken more than the prescribed dose of Hydrea, it is important to seek emergency medical assistance or contact your local poison control center right away.

Symptoms of an overdose may vary depending on the amount of medication taken and individual factors. Signs of a Hydrea overdose may include:

1. Increased severity of side effects: The usual side effects of Hydrea, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or skin reactions, may become more pronounced.
2. Bone marrow suppression: Hydroxyurea can affect the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. An overdose may result in a significant decrease in red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. This can lead to anemia, increased risk of infections, or bleeding.
3. Increased liver toxicity: Medicine can affect liver function, and an overdose may worsen liver damage or lead to liver toxicity. Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), abdominal pain, or dark urine.
4. Other symptoms: Additional signs of an overdose may include dizziness, confusion, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, or fainting.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Hydrea, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

It is important to try and take this drug consistently and at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medication in your body. If you frequently forget to take your doses or have trouble remembering, it may be helpful to set reminders or use pill organizers to stay organized.

 Hydrea (pdf)