Hydrea 500mg Capsule contains Hydroxyurea (Hydroxycarbamide), a cytotoxic and antimetabolite medicine used under strict medical supervision. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of certain blood disorders and cancers, as well as sickle cell disease. It works by slowing down the growth of abnormal cells in the body and helping improve blood flow in specific conditions.

This medicine is a prescription-only drug and should only be used under the guidance of an oncologist or specialist.

Uses

• Treatment of sickle cell disease (reduces painful crises)
• Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
• Certain head and neck cancers
• Cervical cancer (as part of therapy)
• Myeloproliferative disorders (as prescribed by a doctor)

Benefits

• Reduces frequency of painful sickle cell crises
• Helps control abnormal blood cell production
• Slows progression of certain cancers
• Improves blood flow in sickle cell patients
• Used as an important supportive therapy in hematology and oncology

Dosage

• Strictly as prescribed by a qualified doctor
• Dose depends on body weight, condition, and blood test results
• Taken once daily or in cycles depending on treatment plan
• Regular blood monitoring is required during use
• Do not stop or change dose without medical supervision

Prescription Required

Yes (Strictly Prescription Medicine)

How It Works

Hydroxyurea works by interfering with DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cells. This slows down abnormal cell growth in cancers and increases fetal hemoglobin production in sickle cell disease, which helps reduce red blood cell sickling and pain episodes.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness or headache
• Low blood counts (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)
• Hair thinning
• Fatigue
• Mouth ulcers

Do Not Use If

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding (unless advised by specialist)
• You have severe bone marrow suppression
• You are allergic to Hydroxyurea
• It is not prescribed by an oncologist or hematologist

Storage Instructions

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

FAQs

Q1: What is Hydrea 500mg used for?

It is used for sickle cell disease and certain cancers like leukemia and head & neck cancers.

Q2: Is Hydrea a chemotherapy drug?

Yes, it is a cytotoxic (chemotherapy) medicine used under strict medical supervision.

Q3: Can I take Hydrea without prescription?

No. It is a high-risk prescription-only medicine.

Q4: How long does Hydrea take to work?

Effects vary depending on condition; blood disorders may take weeks to months of monitored therapy.

Q5: Is regular monitoring required?

Yes, frequent blood tests are essential during treatment.