Hydroxyurea Tablets are a medicine used to treat certain blood disorders and cancers. They belong to a class of drugs called antineoplastic (chemotherapy) and antimetabolite agents.

Here are the key details:

• Composition: Each tablet contains Hydroxyurea, commonly in strengths such as 500 mg or 1000 mg.

• Dosage Form: Oral tablets, usually taken once daily or as prescribed by a doctor, with or without food.

• Mode of Action:

  • Hydroxyurea interferes with DNA synthesis by inhibiting the enzyme ribonucleotide reductase.

  • This slows the growth and division of rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells or abnormal blood cells.

• Uses:

  • Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and other types of leukemia.

  • Polycythemia vera – to reduce excessive red blood cell production.

  • Sickle cell anemia – to reduce the frequency of painful crises and need for blood transfusions.

  • Occasionally used in other cancers or blood disorders as prescribed by a doctor.

• Treatment Goal: To control abnormal cell growth, manage blood cell counts, and reduce complications related to certain cancers or blood disorders.

• Side Effects:

  • Common: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, mild hair thinning, skin rash.

  • Less common/serious: bone marrow suppression (low blood counts), increased risk of infections, mouth sores, liver or kidney function changes, allergic reactions.

• Precautions:

  • Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is essential.

  • Use protective measures to avoid infections due to lowered immunity.

  • Avoid pregnancy or breastfeeding during treatment; effective contraception is recommended.

  • Inform the doctor about other medications or medical conditions to prevent interactions.

👉 Hydroxyurea is effective because it targets rapidly dividing cells, making it useful for managing certain cancers and blood disorders, while helping reduce complications in conditions like sickle cell anemia.