Hydroxyurea affects certain cells in the body, such as cancer cells or sickled red blood cells.

 

Hydroxyurea is used to treat melanoma (a type of skin cancer), chronic myelocytic leukemia, cancer of the ovary, and primary squamous cell (skin) cancer of the head and neck. Hydroxyurea is also used to treat sickle cell anemia.

 

Hydroxyurea may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger or smaller amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

 

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

 

Hydroxyurea can be taken with or without food.

 

Handle the tablets and capsules with extreme care. The medicine from a crushed or broken tablet or capsule can be dangerous if it gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on your skin. Wash your hands before and after handling the pills or the medicine bottle. For best protection, wear disposable gloves whenever handling the bottle or the pills. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to safely dispose of any unused tablets or capsules. Talk with your doctor if you have trouble swallowing the capsule. Your doctor may instruct you to open the capsule, pour the medicine powder into a glass of water, and drink this mixture. If you open a capsule, do not inhale the powder or let it come in contact with your skin. Wash your hands before and after handling the pills, and wear disposable gloves when opening the capsule. If any of the medicine is spilled, wipe up the spill with a damp cloth and throw the cloth away in a sealed plastic bag. Keep all medicine and empty capsule shells out of the reach of children and pets.

 

Hydroxyurea can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill.

 

To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

 

If you vomit shortly after taking a dose hydroxyurea, contact your doctor. You may need to take another dose. Follow your doctor's instructions.

 

It is important to take hydroxyurea regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

 

Store hydroxyurea at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it.

Do not allow anyone else to take your medication or handle the medicine bottle, tablets, or capsules. Anyone preparing or handling this medicine for you should wear disposable gloves and wash hands before and after handling the medicine.

 

Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.

 

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with hydroxyurea, and avoid coming into contact with anyone who has recently received a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus could be passed on to you.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as: