Hydroxyurea

HYDROXYUREA - ORAL (hi-DROX-ee-you-REE-uh)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Hydrea

USES: Hydroxyurea is used to treat certain types of cancer or blood disorders.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used for chronic urinary tract infections or certain cases of psoriasis.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: This is a potent medication. Take it exactly as prescribed. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. This helps your kidneys remove the drug from your body and minimize some of the side effects. If you cannot swallow capsules, you may empty the contents into a glass of water and drink it immediately. Be careful not to touch or inhale the drug powder if you open the capsule. Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting. If you vomit shortly after a dose, contact your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, rash, itchiness, constipation, or drowsiness are common side effects. Changes in diet, such as eating several small meals or limited activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Contact your doctor without delay if you experience any of the following symptoms:

fever, chills, cough; lower back or side pain; painful or difficult urination; tiredness or weakness; sores in mouth or on lips; sores (ulcers) on legs; unusual bleeding or bruising; black tarry stools; blood in urine or stools; small red spots on the skin (especially on the face); rash, confusion, dizziness, convulsions, hallucinations, headache, joint pain; swelling of feet or lower legs. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: blood disorders (e.g., anemia), liver disease, kidney problems, infections, previously had cancer treatments, any allergies. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug and may require a lower dosing. Birth control measures are recommended for use in men and women while taking this medication. Hydroxyurea is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. This medication is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Do not breast-feed while using hydroxyurea.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: medications to treat gout, anti-cancer drugs. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include facial swelling, hallucinations, and confusion.

NOTES: Keep all doctor appointments. Frequent blood tests will be done to monitor your progress.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, do not take the missed dose at all. Instead resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses to catch up. Check with your doctor.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854- 1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.