Hydrosar 500mg Capsule

About

Hydroxyurea is an antineoplastic agent that functions primarily as a ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor. This enzyme is essential for DNA synthesis, as it catalyzes the conversion of ribonucleotides to deoxyribonucleotides. By inhibiting ribonucleotide reductase, hydroxyurea depletes deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates, thereby arresting cells in the S-phase of the cell cycle and inhibiting DNA repair. This mechanism makes it effective in treating various myeloproliferative neoplasms, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), polycythemia vera (PV), and essential thrombocythemia (ET), by reducing elevated blood cell counts. It is also used in sickle cell anemia to increase fetal hemoglobin production, which reduces the frequency of painful crises and acute chest syndrome. Its oral administration offers convenience for long-term management.

Uses

• Treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
• Management of polycythemia vera (PV).
• Therapy for essential thrombocythemia (ET).
• Reduction of painful crises in sickle cell anemia.

Directions For Use

Take orally once daily, preferably at the same time each day. Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not open or crush.

Benefits

• Effective in controlling myeloproliferative disorders.
• Reduces elevated blood cell counts (WBC, platelets, RBC).
• Increases fetal hemoglobin in sickle cell anemia.
• Reduces frequency of painful crises in sickle cell disease.
• Oral administration for convenient long-term therapy.
• Can improve quality of life and reduce disease complications.

Side Effects

• Bone marrow suppression (myelosuppression)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin hyperpigmentation
• Oral mucositis
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fever
• Anorexia
• Leg ulcers (chronic use)
• Macrocytosis

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects and potentially increase the risk of liver toxicity, especially with prolonged use.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to significant teratogenic potential. Women of childbearing potential and male patients should use effective contraception during and after treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Contraindicated during breastfeeding as hydroxyurea is excreted in breast milk and can cause serious adverse effects in the nursing infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary, and liver function should be monitored due to potential for increased toxicity.
• Kidney - Administer with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose reductions are typically required, and kidney function should be closely monitored to prevent drug accumulation and toxicity.
• Lung - Rare but serious interstitial lung disease and pulmonary fibrosis have been reported with long-term use. Patients should be monitored for new or worsening respiratory symptoms.

Disclaimer

MedEHub is committed to delivering reliable, expert-reviewd information to help consumers make informed health decisions. However, the content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.

Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.